In a thrilling finale to the 2024 Irani Cup, young all-rounder Tanush Kotian emerged as a standout performer for Mumbai, leading them to victory after a 27-year wait. His exceptional contributions both with the bat and ball have not only caught the attention of fans but also earned him praise from Team India’s T20I skipper, Suryakumar Yadav.
Tanush Kotian’s Stellar Performance
Kotian played a pivotal role in the match against Rest of India (RoI) at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. In the first innings, he scored an impressive 64 runs off 124 balls, providing stability to the Mumbai batting lineup. However, it was his second innings that truly showcased his talent. Batting at number eight, he scored an unbeaten 114 runs off 150 balls, guiding Mumbai to a total of 329/8.
His century came during a crucial partnership with Mohit Avasthi, who contributed 51 not out. The duo formed an unbroken stand of 158 runs for the ninth wicket when Mumbai was struggling at 171/8. This remarkable recovery not only secured their innings but also highlighted Kotian’s ability to perform under pressure.
Praise from Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav took to Instagram to express his admiration for Kotian’s performance. Sharing a video of Kotian celebrating his century, he wrote, “What an Asset for Team Mumbai @tanush_kotian What a player”. This acknowledgment from the national team captain underscores the impact Kotian has made in this high-stakes match.
In addition to his batting heroics, Kotian also made significant contributions with the ball. He finished with figures of 3/101, marking him as the best bowler for Mumbai in their first innings. His efforts were critical in dismissing RoI for 416 runs, allowing Mumbai to maintain a commanding position throughout the match.
The match concluded with both teams agreeing to a draw after Mumbai secured victory via their first-innings lead. This win marked Mumbai’s 15th Irani Cup title, ending a long wait of 27 years since their last triumph.
A Promising Career Ahead
Tanush Kotian’s journey in cricket began at an early age when he was selected for the Giles Shield and later progressed through various age-group tournaments. He made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 2018-19 season at just 20 years old. His recent performances have solidified his place as one of Mumbai’s rising stars.
Earlier this year, Kotian played a crucial role in helping Mumbai lift the Ranji Trophy for the 42nd time, scoring 502 runs at an average of 41.83 and taking 29 wickets at an impressive average of 16.96. He was also named Player of the Tournament, highlighting his all-round capabilities.
Reflecting on his achievements, Kotian stated, “Winning the Ranji Trophy was a childhood dream… I can safely say that the hard work has borne fruits and the monkey is off my back now.” His determination and skill have made him a key player for Mumbai cricket.
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