BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma reveals why Tanush Kotian was picked over Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav

Tanush Kotian will join India squad for last two tests of the BGT 2024-25.

Following Ravichandran Ashwin‘s retirement from international cricket, India added young Mumbai-born all-rounder Tanush Kotian to their squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25.

The 26-year-old off-spinner, who will be part of last two tests of the BGT 2024-25, has been a standout performer in domestic cricket. Kotian played a key role in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy triumph last season. The all-rounder scored 502 runs at an average of 41.83 and took 29 wickets at an average of 16.96 in a historical campaign.

Kotian was also a member of the India A squad that played two tour games against Australia A in the lead-up to the BGT 2024-25.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has now revealed why Kotian was included in the Indian test squad instead of experienced ones like Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.

Rohit Sharma on Tanush Kotian’s inclusion in India’s squad

Speaking to the media ahead of the Boxing Day test, Rohit Sharma provided a mix of humour and insight regarding Kotian’s call-up.

Rohit said, “Yeah, Tanush was here a month back. Kuldeep, I don’t think has a visa. We wanted somebody to get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was the one who was ready. That’s just a joke.”

The Indian skipper also highlighted the potential of fielding two spinners in the upcoming matches in Melbourne and Sydney.

Rohit added, “Not that Tanush is not good enough. He has shown in the last two years what he has done in domestic cricket. And we really wanted just a backup in case , you know, we need two spinners playing here (Melbourne) or Sydney, you need a backup option.“

Rohit also clarified the reasons behind the unavailability of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. “Kuldeep went through hernia surgery, so he’s not 100 percent fit. Axar recently had a baby, so he wasn’t going to travel. Tanush was the right option for us, and he has shown on domestic level what he is capable of.“

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