Mon Dec 23 18:03:28 UTC 2024: ## India Calls Up All-Rounder Tanush Kotian for Remainder of Australia Test Series
**Melbourne, Australia** – India has bolstered its squad for the remaining two Border-Gavaskar Trophy Tests against Australia with the inclusion of Mumbai all-rounder Tanush Kotian. The 26-year-old off-spinner and capable batsman replaces Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently retired from international cricket.
Kotian, who made his first-class debut in the 2018-19 Ranji season, has a strong domestic record. In 33 first-class matches, he has taken 101 wickets at an average of 25.70, including three five-wicket hauls. He’s also a reliable batsman, having scored 1525 runs at an average of 41.21, including two centuries and 13 half-centuries. His List-A and T20 records are also impressive.
His selection is a significant boost for India, who are currently locked in a 1-1 draw in the five-match series. The fourth Test begins at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 26th. Kotian’s experience with India A and a single IPL match with the Rajasthan Royals adds to his credentials. Notably, in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy, he and Tushar Deshpande created history by both scoring centuries batting at numbers 10 and 11 respectively against Baroda.
The inclusion of Kotian adds another dimension to India’s bowling attack, providing crucial spin support. The upcoming Melbourne Test is crucial for both teams, with the series poised for a thrilling conclusion. Australia, meanwhile, will be looking to capitalize on home advantage. The MCG holds a strong record in Test matches, with 67 wins from 116 matches. However, India will be hoping to improve on their historically poor record at the venue against Australia, where they have won only 4 out of 14 Tests.
First Piper 