Tanush Kotian's Fifty Steadies West Zone in Duleep Trophy Semifinals

Bengaluru, Sep 5 (PTI) - Tanush Kotian, often dubbed the "crisis man," demonstrated his pressure-handling prowess yet again with a commendable fifty, fortifying West Zone against Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy semifinals held here.

Scoring 76 runs, Kotian notably forged a 148-run partnership for the sixth wicket alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad, followed by an 84-run stand for the seventh wicket with Shardul Thakur, propelling West Zone beyond the 400-run threshold.

Kotian expressed that batting lower down the order is a challenge he relishes.

"Batting down the order is a challenge I embrace. We have a wealth of talented batsmen in the team, so batting lower down gives me a chance to contribute significantly, particularly with the tailenders, to offer our bowlers a cushion," Kotian shared post the second day’s play on Friday.

The Mumbai batter had also previously played a crucial innings of an unbeaten 90 for India A against the England Lions, ahead of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, resulting in a draw for his side.

When asked about his calmness under pressure, Kotian stated, "Having played for Mumbai over the past 3-4 years, I've grasped the nuances of batting lower in the order and handling pressure. It's about knowing when to take risks to keep the game alive." He further added, "I don't dwell on how many wickets have fallen. Instead, I focus on my abilities, evaluating my approach to play my shots and alleviate the team's pressure."

On whether he's desired to move up the order to mitigate pressure, Kotian reflected, "There are moments I wish to move up, yet I accept and rise to the demands placed by the team."

Despite being called included in the India squad following R Ashwin's retirement post the Brisbane Test against Australia the previous year, Kotian remains focused on maintaining his current momentum without looking too far ahead amid a packed international calendar.

"For the past six months, I've been intent on continuing what I already do well without pondering over upcoming matches. The future decision lies in the selectors' hands, but my aim remains to give 100% effort, whether in batting or bowling, which stays in my mind as a constant." He added.

I stay in the present: Jagadeesan

Meanwhile, Narayan Jagadeesan articulated that his surprise call to the India squad hasn’t induced pressure or altered his view towards the game or himself.

Jagadeesan, who smashed 197 for South Zone in their Duleep Trophy semifinals against North Zone, was named to the India squad for the fifth Test against England following Rishabh Pant’s toe injury in the fourth Test at Manchester.

"Focusing on such thoughts merely adds pressure. My aim is to enjoy the game, cherishing every match opportunity I receive," Jagadeesan stated.

"Considering the aspiration of a billion people to play in tournaments like the Duleep Trophy, Ranji Trophy, or be part of Team India, it’s crucial not to get lost in self-performance concerns. Many X factors play into it, hence staying present-minded without fretting over the future is essential," he explained.

The Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter believes in drawing positives from his induction into the India squad.

“The Indian call-up is a positive reinforcement for my confidence. I've been fortunate to receive it, and it’s about leveraging that confidence and translating it into my game," he concluded.

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