Mumbai’s offspin-bowling allrounder Tanush Kotian has been named as Ravichandran Ashwin’s replacement for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) following the veteran spinner’s sudden retirement. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed Kotian’s selection on Monday, marking a significant milestone for the 26-year-old cricketer.
Kotian is set to fly to Melbourne on December 24 to join the Indian squad ahead of the Boxing Day Test starting December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). He will act as a backup for spinners Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja, with Axar Patel reportedly unavailable for the series.
A Rising Star in Domestic Cricket
Tanush Kotian’s call-up comes on the back of his stellar performances in domestic cricket. The offspinner was instrumental in Mumbai’s record-breaking Ranji Trophy campaign last season, earning the Player-of-the-Tournament title. Kotian amassed 502 runs at an average of 41.83 and claimed 29 wickets at an outstanding average of 16.96, showcasing his prowess as a genuine allrounder.
In his first-class career so far, Kotian has played 33 matches, taking 101 wickets at an average of 25.70. His batting credentials are equally impressive, having scored 1,525 runs at an average of 41.21, including two centuries and 13 fifties.
Kotian has previously donned the India A jersey, featuring in a solitary match during the team’s tour of Australia before the BGT. In that outing, he contributed 44 runs and picked up one wicket. While his IPL journey has been relatively quiet—he played just one game for Rajasthan Royals in 2024—his domestic consistency has made him a standout performer.
Kotian’s selection comes as a chance for redemption after going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. His inclusion signals the Indian management’s faith in his potential to step up at the international level.
The Boxing Day Test will be a baptism of fire for Kotian should he make the playing XI. With the series evenly poised, his contributions could prove crucial in a high-stakes game. Speaking on his selection, MCA officials expressed their pride, stating, “Tanush has worked hard and deserves this opportunity. He’s an asset with both bat and ball.”
As India eyes a strong finish to the BGT, Kotian’s addition brings renewed hope and depth to the squad, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the young allrounder’s career.
