Why Did India Pick Tanush Kotian Over Kuldeep For MCG Test? Rohit Sharma Shares
.jpg?im=Resize=(650,450))
Rohit Sharma on Kuldeep's Exclusion (Source: @RishiAjnoti, @iamKuldeep18,@crazycricjohns/X.com)
Indian captain Rohit Sharma recently attended the pre-match press conference ahead of the high-octane India versus Australia Boxing Day Test at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The fourth Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy is crucial from India's perspective as they aim to make it to the WTC Final. Hence, picking the accurate bunch would be essential for the upcoming clash, especially since Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement.
Immediately after The Gabba Test, India's second-highest Test wicket-taker, Ashwin, shocked everyone as he announced his retirement. The emotional goodbye felt bittersweet as the right-hand off-spinner did not get to play in his final Test and get the farewell he deserved.
However, his absence meant India needed to pick up a backup spinner for the upcoming final two Test matches. Last evening, BCCI announced that 26-year-old, Tanush Kotian has been called up as Ashwin's replacement. Several individuals wondered why spin wizard Kuldeep Yadav was not included in India's squad.
?type=mq)
Rohit on Kotian's Inclusion And Kuldeep Yadav's Injury
Speaking about Kuldeep's exclusion, Rohit revealed the reason why India decided to opt for Kotian in place of the skilled left-arm wrist spinner. He later on also revealed that Kuldeep is not completely fit as he recently went through a surgery.
"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," Rohit explained during the pre-match presser.
"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," Rohit added.
Meanwhile, Rohit, who sustained an injury to his knee, confirmed that he is fit and fine and would be playing at the MCG when the fourth Test begins from 26 December, Thursday onwards.
?type=mq)
