Mumbai all-rounder Tanush Kotian has been named as Ravichandran Ashwin’s replacement for the fourth and fifth Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Melbourne and Sydney. Captain Rohit Sharma explained the reasons behind his selection, citing logistical challenges and Kotian’s recent performances.

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• Tanush Kotian replaces Ashwin, who retired from international cricket after the third Test.
• Kuldeep Yadav was unavailable due to visa issues, and Axar Patel was unavailable after becoming a father.
• Kuldeep recently underwent hernia surgery, ruling him out of contention.
• Kotian, part of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, will join the team on Tuesday.
• Rohit Sharma praised Kotian for his consistent performances over the past two years.
• Kotian was part of the India ‘A’ tour in Australia, scoring 44 runs and taking a wicket in his sole appearance.
• The 26-year-old has played 33 first-class games, taking 101 wickets at 25.70 and scoring 1525 runs at an average of 41.21.
• Rohit hinted Kotian might be used as a backup spinner for Sydney or Melbourne if India plays two spinners.