IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma says Tanush Kotian is 'right option', find out why he prefers Mumbai youngster over Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav

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India vs Australia: Mumbai off-spinning all-rounder Tanush Kotian has been named as Ravichandran Ashwin's replacement in the Indian squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Ashwin retired after the Brisbane Test, prompting the Indian selectors to include Kotian, who recently toured Australia with the India A team. The decision has drawn interest, particularly given the absence of experienced spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.

Tanush Kotian brings valuable experience from playing on Australian pitches, having represented India A during their recent tour. His performance in the second unofficial Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground also showed his adaptability to Australian conditions. Rohit Sharma, speaking at a pre-match press conference, clarified the rationale behind Kotian's inclusion.

"Tanush was here a month back (for the Australia A series). Kuldeep (Yadav), I do not think, has a visa (laughs). And we wanted somebody to get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was the one who was ready and he played here," Rohit explained.

"Not that Tanush is not good enough. He has shown in the last two years what he has done in domestic cricket. We really wanted just a backup in case we need two spinners playing here or in Sydney."

While Kuldeep Yadav offers a unique left-arm wrist-spin option, he is recovering from hernia surgery and is not yet fit for selection. Axar Patel, on the other hand, had personal commitments following the birth of his child and is unavailable to travel. Moreover, Axar's track record shows diminished effectiveness in overseas conditions, further justifying the selectors' decision to opt for Kotian.

Kotian's inclusion also bolsters India's spin options, particularly with Sydney's spin-friendly conditions looming. His off-spin complements Washington Sundar, the squad's only other off-spinner, while his batting skills strengthen the lower order, compensating for Ashwin's absence.

Rohit reiterated that the decision aligns with team needs. "Kuldeep, obviously, is not 100 percent fit, and Axar is not going to travel. So Tanush was the right option for us at this point. He has certainly shown at the domestic level what he is capable of."

While the Boxing Day Test at the MCG may favor seamers, Kotian's presence ensures strategic depth. His selection reflects India's commitment to ensuring balance and readiness for upcoming challenges, including the critical Sydney Test.