Team India pacer Harshit Rana’s childhood coach, Shravan, revealed that the youngster once faced the threat of being dropped from the playing XI if his performances didn’t improve. After a shaky start to his international career, the right-arm pacer found his rhythm with a stunning four-wicket haul in the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Rana dismissed Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Mitchell Owen, and Josh Hazlewood, finishing with impressive figures of 4 for 39 in 8.4 overs. His efforts were crucial in restricting Australia to just 236 runs in the final ODI. Despite featuring for India across all three formats since making his debut in late 2024, the young pacer has yet to become a consistent fan or expert favorite.
The team backed Harshit for his talent, but Shravan revealed Gambhir warned him that his spot depended on consistent performances.
“He (Harshit) called me and told me that he wanted to shut the outside noise with his performance. I just said, believe in yourself. I know some cricketers say he is close to Gambhir. But Gambhir knows how to identify talent, and he backs them.”
“He has backed a lot of cricketers, and they have done wonders for their team. He in fact scolded Harshit badly. He told him directly, ‘perform kar, warna bahar bitha dunga.’ (Perform well, otherwise I will keep you on the bench). He sends a clear message to whoever you are,” Shravan told the Times of India.
“Don’t Talk For YouTube Views” – Shravan Hits Back At Harshit Rana Critics During AUS Vs IND 2025 ODIs
Harshit Rana became a frequent subject of debate among fans and experts — some questioned his place in the playing XI, while others heavily criticised his performances. The backlash grew so intense that Gautam Gambhir had to step in and publicly defend the young pacer.
Coach Shravan remarked that pundits should focus on offering constructive guidance rather than harsh or personal criticism that can negatively impact a player’s confidence.
“Rana is 23. Let’s give him some time. First Krishnamachari Srikkanth took the case of this kid. After retirements, cricketers have started their YouTube channels to earn, but please don’t scrutinise any kid who just started. They have the right to guide, scold, but please don’t say anything for your YouTube channel’s visibility,” Rana’s childhood coach added.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
