After a strong debut in the Perth Test, pacer Harshit Rana couldn’t replicate his performance in the second Test of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Adelaide. Rana experienced contrasting performances, highlighting the ups and downs of Test cricket.
He struggled with the pink ball and lacked consistency. As India heads into the third Test in Brisbane, the pacers need to step up their game. With reports suggesting a possible return for Mohammed Shami and Akash Deep, Harshit may not automatically secure a spot in the playing XI.
Pradeep Rana, Harshit’s father, has challenged him to bowl at 150 kph, stating he will only consider him a player when he achieves that speed.
“I have challenged him to bowl 150 kph. I have told him I will consider you a player the day you touch 150 kph,” Pradeep Rana was quoted as saying by Indian Express.
The pacer’s father has been firm, insisting that Harshit must bowl at 150 kph if he wishes to continue playing cricket for the country. Currently, he is bowling in the late-120s and mid-130s, but he will need to increase his speed, particularly in Australia.
“If you bowl 150 kph, no one will stop you from playing for India, but if you will bowl 125 kph, even a local club will not select you,” he added.
Harshit Rana’s achievements and challenges in Australia to date
At just 22 years old, Harshit Rana’s Test debut for India, particularly against Australia in Australia, is already a remarkable achievement. While he has garnered attention, cricket has also humbled him, reminding the young player that there is still much to learn.
In his first Test in Perth, Harshit impressed by taking three wickets in the first innings, dismissing Travis Head, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon, finishing with a total of four wickets in the match.
However, in the second Test in Adelaide, he struggled, failing to take a single wicket, conceding runs, and not managing to apply pressure on the Australian batters.
After just two Tests, Harshit has experienced both success and setbacks. With his youth on his side, he has plenty of time to develop, especially considering the fierce competition and abundance of talent in India.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
