Who is Tanush Kotian? Mumbai all-rounder that will replace Ravichandran Ashwin in Rohit Sharma-led Indian team

Tanush Kotian in frame
Tanush Kotian in frame

Highlights:

Tanush Kotian gets maiden India call-up.

He will be joining team as Ashwin's replacement.

Kotian will join team before the Melbourne Test.

Tanush Kotian, an all-round spin bowler from Mumbai, is expected to be called up to the Indian Test team in Melbourne prior to the pivotal fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy match. during Ravichandran Ashwin's recent retirement during the Brisbane Test, Kotian was added. The 26-year-old's steady and impressive domestic cricket exploits won him a position in the squad.

Kotian, a right-handed batter and off-spinner, has been one of Mumbai's best players lately. He has continuously shown his mettle in India's top red-ball competition and is renowned for his ability to perform well under duress. Since making his first-class debut in 2018, Kotian has participated in 33 games and amassed 1,525 runs at an average of 41.21, including 13 half-centuries and two hundreds. He has taken three five-wicket hauls and 101 wickets at an average of 25.70 with the ball.

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Mumbai star earns India call-up

His ascent to the national team is a tale of perseverance and diligence. Kotian rejoined the Under-23 team to hone his talents after being cut from Mumbai's main squad during his first Ranji campaign. He put in a lot of effort to make his career-changing return in 2022. He helped Mumbai win the Ranji Trophy in 2023–24 with 29 wickets and 502 runs, which was a very noteworthy performance.

Kotian's bowling style is frequently likened to Ravichandran Ashwin's. He uses speed, delivering between 85 and 90 kph, which adds bounce and turn. He is a great asset because of this ability as well as his talent for ending alliances. Kotian developed his abilities playing gully cricket while growing up in the busy lanes of Vikhroli, Mumbai. His career has been greatly influenced by his father, a former semi-professional cricket player who is now a coach.

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Kotian impresses with consistency

In addition to his achievements at home, Kotian has made an impression on the India A lineup. Prior to the Border Gavaskar Trophy, he was a member of the team that toured Australia. He then demonstrated his versatility in the Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup. He demonstrated his attitude and capacity to perform well under duress with his fast-paced century in the Irani Cup, which saved Mumbai from a dire situation.

Kotian hopes to replace Ashwin's enormous vacuum as he joins the Indian team. His fighting attitude and all-around skills infuse the team with new vitality. His selection is a testament to India's strong domestic cricket structure as well as a reward for his steady play.