PBKS Enlist Tanush Kotian as Net Bowler; All-Rounder Also Selected for India’s Australia Tour
Mumbai all-rounder Tanush Kotian, unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, has joined Punjab Kings (PBKS) as a net bowler ahead of their key clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Kotian, a 26-year-old orthodox off-spinner, was seen bowling to PBKS batters during Friday’s training and held discussions with spin-bowling coach Sunil Joshi. His inclusion is a tactical move, as KKR’s potent spin attack-featuring Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy-has troubled many teams this season. Kotian’s recent domestic form is impressive; he played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph and was added to India’s Test squad for the Australia series after R Ashwin’s retirement. His Mumbai teammate, PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, is believed to have influenced his recruitment, recognizing Kotian’s value in preparing for quality spin.
PBKS currently sit in a strong position with five wins from eight matches, while KKR have only three victories and are struggling for playoff contention. In their previous encounter, PBKS defended just 111 runs-the lowest total ever successfully defended in IPL history-bowling out KKR for 95. As the playoff race intensifies, Kotian’s presence in the nets could prove crucial for PBKS as they look to maintain their edge over KKR’s spin-heavy attack