India’s skipper Shubman Gill sees a bright future for Harshit Rana as a crucial bowling all-rounder, especially if he continues to prove his worth with the bat down the order. Rana delivered a standout performance in the third One-Day International against Australia, securing a career-best four wickets, which helped India clinch a nine-wicket victory in Sydney.
Speaking after the match, Gill emphasized the importance of a number eight batsman who can chip in with runs. “If a batsman can consistently score 20-25 runs at the number eight position, which we believe Harshit is capable of, it elevates that role significantly,” Gill stated.
Rana had already demonstrated his batting prowess in the second ODI in Adelaide by scoring a valuable 24 runs. Gill further praised Rana’s physical attributes and bowling style, noting his height and ability to bowl over 140 km/h, which makes him a valuable asset, particularly on pitches found in countries like South Africa. “There are very few tall fast bowlers who can consistently hit speeds above 140. On wickets like those in South Africa, such bowlers become incredibly important,” Gill added, looking ahead to the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, which begins on November 30 with matches in Ranchi, Raipur, and Vishakhapatnam.
The skipper also credited India’s spinners for laying the groundwork before Rana’s impactful spell. “Australia got off to a strong start, but our spinners did an excellent job of creating pressure first. Then, Harshit came in and bowled with great power and effort, and I believe he was justly rewarded for that,” Gill explained.
Despite not reaching a half-century himself during the series, Gill expressed confidence in his own batting form. “In the first match, I was dismissed down the leg side. I’m not overly concerned about my batting. Sometimes these things happen. Of course, you always want to perform for the team in every single match, but I’m not worried about my individual performance,” he clarified.
Rana’s impressive all-round display makes him a strong contender for a regular spot at number eight in future series, as India seeks to enhance its team balance with a capable bowling all-rounder. Although India lost the series 2-1, Rana’s emergence, alongside his six wickets making him the top wicket-taker, provided a significant positive. Addressing recent online criticism, Rana shared his positive outlook on Instagram after the win: “Not just a win, a statement of unity, belief, and teamwork. Eleven players. One heartbeat.”