Tanush Kotian delivered a masterclass in spin bowling on Wednesday, claiming 7/45 to dismantle Railways for 259 at the Brabourne Stadium. The off-spinner’s performance, which followed career-best figures of 8/81 against Haryana in his previous outing, has solidified his status as a top contender for the India Test squad. By reducing the opposition to a modest total, Kotian set the stage for Mumbai to secure a commanding 137-run first-innings lead, showcasing his ability to dominate matches in high-pressure environments.
Mumbai spinner’s relentless form puts pressure on selectors ahead of Australia tour
Mumbai’s batting lineup capitalized on Kotian’s bowling foundation, with Angkrish Raghuvanshi (79) and Divyaansh Sksena (68 not out) anchoring the chase. The pair guided the 42-time Ranji Trophy champions to 174/4 by stumps, stretching their overall lead to 311 and positioning them for a fourth consecutive outright victory. Kotian’s dual threat, combining prolific wicket-taking with valuable lower-order contributions, makes him a difficult omission for national selectors who are currently evaluating depth for the upcoming five-match series against Australia.
The competition for the off-spin slot remains intense, with Washington Sundar established as the primary choice and Saransh Jain also in contention following his appearance in the Sri Lanka series. However, Kotian’s consistent output this season, including 37 wickets in seven first-class matches and 22 in four Ranji Trophy games, presents a compelling argument for inclusion. As the Australia series approaches, Kotian’s relentless strike rate and recent form suggest he has earned a serious hearing from the selection committee.
Source: Yahoo Sports
