Indian pacer Harshit Rana, who has shown promise in recent domestic matches, will have to wait longer to make his international debut. Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar confirmed that there will be no changes to India’s squad for the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai, beginning November 1.
Harshit, who joined the camp amid speculation of a debut, was included as a net bowler and not in the final lineup. His recent performance for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy, where he took a five-wicket haul and scored a half-century, has earned him recognition, but he will remain a reserve for the series.
Focus on Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Nayar explained that while each day is crucial in India’s pursuit of a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot, they are not solely focused on the summit clash. Instead, the team is concentrating on one game at a time, as highlighted in Nayar’s remarks. Though Harshit will not play in the current series, he has been named in the 18-member squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia next month.
This move suggests India is building depth in their bowling lineup, as the young pacer will join experienced players such as Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, and Mohd. Siraj for the high-stakes series.
Harshit’s Impressive Year So Far
Harshit has had a breakthrough year in 2024, particularly due to his contributions to Kolkata Knight Riders’ title-winning IPL campaign, where he took 19 wickets in 13 matches. His performance earned him call-ups for the Sri Lanka tour and the Bangladesh T20I series, though he missed the third T20I against Bangladesh due to illness.
Now part of a jumbo squad travelling to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar series, Harshit’s journey is gaining momentum, and his experience as a reserve in the current New Zealand series is helping him prepare for future opportunities. With his talent and recent form, fans eagerly await his debut as he continues training with the senior squad.
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