BGT 2024-25: 'Kuldeep, I don't think has a visa!', Rohit Sharma explains Tanush Kotian's selection!
Xtra Time Web Desk: Xtra Time Web Desk: Rohit Sharma and his one liners in press meet is a very popular pair we offer get to see. Rohit Sharma's press conference ahead of the boxing day test at MCG takes a frequent turn when asked about Tanush Kotian's selection.
Rohit jokingly remarked that Kuldeep Yadav didn't have a visa, which paved the way for Kotian. However, he quickly clarified that Kotian's inclusion was based on his performance. As he 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. He played here. He is good enough. He has shown what he has done in the last 1–2 years in domestic cricket. And we really wanted a back-up in case we need two spinners playing here or Sydney, you need a back-up option."
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Kotian, the 26 years old versatile off spinner and a dependable batsman has grabbed the lens before while playing for Mumbai in domestic contributing 502 runs at an average of 41.83 and picking up 29 wickets at an impressive average of 16.96. The decision to include Kotian also addressed potential gaps in the squad caused by Kuldeep Yadav's ongoing recovery from hernia surgery and Axar Patel's unavailability following the birth of his child.
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As he stated, "Kuldeep, obviously, he is not 100 percent fit, he went through hernia surgery. And the other options like Axar, Axar recently had a baby, he was not going to travel. Tanush was the right option for us. He has certainly shown in the domestic level what he is capable of. He is probably one of the reasons why Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy last year. He played a major role as an all-rounder. Very good option for us, all areas are covered."
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With 101 wickets in 33 first-class matches at an average of 25.70 and a batting average of 41.21 from 47 innings, Kotian's all-round skills make him a promising addition. All eyes will be on him how he catches the spotlight in absence of experienced campaigners.
