Who is Tanush Kotian? Meet India All-Rounder added to BGT Squad 2024-25

Tanush Kotian, a 26-year-old off-spinning all-rounder from Mumbai, has been called up to join the Indian Test squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia ahead of 4th Test at MCG. With Ravichandran Ashwin announcing his retirement after the third Test, Kotian has been brought in to fill the void left by one of India’s greatest spinners. But who is Tanush Kotian, and what makes him a standout choice for this high-stakes series?

Tanush Kotian in Domestic Cricket

Kotian has played 33 first-class matches, scoring 1525 runs at an impressive average of 41.21. His contributions with the bat include two centuries and 13 fifties, showcasing his ability to step up in pressure situations.

With the ball, Kotian’s numbers are equally remarkable. He has taken 101 wickets at an average of 25.70, proving himself as a reliable wicket-taker. His standout season came during Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy-winning campaign in 2023-24, where he scored 502 runs at an average of 41.83 and picked up 29 wickets at an astonishing average of 16.96. His performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award and put him firmly on the national selectors’ radar.

Why Tanush Kotian selected for AUS vs IND Test Series mid-way?

One of the key reasons for Kotian’s inclusion is his recent experience in Australia. As part of the India A squad earlier this year, Kotian showcased his skills in conditions similar to those in the ongoing series. In his lone appearance, he impressed with an all-around performance, scoring 44 runs and picking up a wicket. This familiarity with Australian pitches and conditions made him a natural choice for the Boxing Day Test.

Kotian’s rise in domestic cricket and his readiness to perform under challenging conditions make him a player to watch. Whether he gets a chance to feature in the XI or not on this tour, that’s another thing. But one thing is certain: Tanush Kotian is a name we are likely to hear more of in the years to come.

How Tanush piped Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav?

India’s selection for the Boxing Day Test was influenced by several factors:

• Kuldeep Yadav: The left-arm wrist-spinner is still recovering from a hernia surgery and was deemed unfit for the grueling demands of the Test series.
• Axar Patel: The all-rounder is unavailable due to personal reasons, as he recently welcomed a baby into his family.

With these options ruled out, Kotian emerged as the best candidate to join the squad. Captain Rohit Sharma explained the decision, saying, “Tanush Kotian played here in Australia a month back with India A and performed well. He’s ready to step up, and his recent form gives us confidence.”

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