December 24, 2024: Ahead of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma backed Tanush Kotian’s selection in India’s squad for the series. Kotian’s inclusion marks a significant moment in his career as he earns his maiden call-up to the Test side for the final two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).
With the series currently tied at 1-1, India made a solitary change to the squad, bringing in Kotian as a replacement for Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the Brisbane Test. Rohit praised the all-rounder’s performances in domestic cricket over the past two years, highlighting his readiness for the international stage.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rohit explained that Kotian’s consistent form in domestic cricket, including his standout performances for Mumbai, made him a strong candidate for the role. “Tanush has shown in the last two years what he has done in domestic cricket. He has certainly shown in the domestic level what he is capable of,” Rohit said.
The skipper also elaborated on the team’s strategic selection. Rohit revealed that Kuldeep Yadav wasn’t fully fit after undergoing hernia surgery, and that Axar Patel, another spin-bowling all-rounder, was unavailable due to personal reasons, having recently become a father. “Kuldeep, obviously, is not 100 per cent fit. He recently went through a hernia surgery. And the other options, like Axar, he had a baby, so he is not going to travel. So Tanush was the right option for us at this point,” Rohit explained.
Rohit also reflected on Kotian’s contribution during the India A vs Australia A series, where he featured in the second tour game in Melbourne. Despite a duck in the first innings, Kotian returned with a useful 44 runs and took a wicket in the second innings, showing his all-round capabilities.
“Tanush was here a month back (for the Australia A series). And Kuldeep, I do not think, has a visa (laughs). We wanted somebody to get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was the one who was ready and he played here,” said Rohit, adding a touch of humor.
Rohit also praised Kotian for his role in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy victory, where he played a key all-round role. “He is probably one of the reasons why Mumbai has gone on to win the Ranji Trophy last year. He played a major role as an all-rounder,” said the Indian captain, underscoring Kotian’s potential as a valuable backup option in case the team needs two spinners in the playing XI.
Rohit concluded by saying that Kotian’s versatility as an all-rounder makes him an ideal choice for the team, ensuring that all areas are covered for the crucial tests ahead.
With the Boxing Day Test set to begin, India will rely on a balanced squad to counter Australia’s strong challenge. The inclusion of Tanush Kotian adds depth to India’s spin-bowling department, especially with Sydney and Melbourne’s historically spin-friendly conditions.
