Young cricketer Harshit Rana faced immense pressure leading into the crucial third and final One-Day International against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). His selection, particularly over Arshdeep Singh, had sparked considerable debate and criticism. Despite the public scrutiny and social media trolling labeling him as “Gautam Gambhir’s man,” Rana chose to let his performance do the talking.
(Image: Harshit Rana carried immense pressure going into the third and final ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground – PTI Photo)
Despite widespread doubts surrounding his place in the squad, Rana patiently awaited his opportunity. It arrived spectacularly at the historic SCG, where he delivered a stunning four-wicket haul. His celebrations were understated, a quiet walk back to the dressing room, conveying a clear message: his performance was his response to the critics.
Harnessing impressive pace and bounce from the SCG pitch, Rana concluded his spell with remarkable figures of 4 wickets for just 39 runs in 8.4 overs, maintaining an excellent economy rate of 4.50. This pivotal contribution helped India dismiss Australia for a total of 236 runs.
Rana’s tour began with a challenging period in Perth and Adelaide. His subsequent selection for the Sydney ODI, over the left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh, once again drew attention. However, it was a blunt, unwavering warning from head coach Gautam Gambhir that truly ignited his resolve. The direct message was: “Perform, or I will drop you from the team.”
In a candid phone conversation with his childhood coach, Sharvan, Rana confessed to the immense pressure weighing on him. Sharvan highlighted that the SCG match was a monumental test for the 23-year-old bowler.
According to Sharvan, Rana was determined to silence the external noise and deliver a powerful performance. It was Gautam Gambhir who provided the crucial motivation.
“He called me, expressing his desire to drown out the criticism with his game,” Sharvan recalled. “My advice was simple: believe in yourself. Some people suggest he’s favored by Gambhir, but Gautam has a keen eye for talent and unwavering support for his players. He’s nurtured many cricketers who have gone on to achieve great things. In fact, he gave Harshit a stern talking-to, telling him directly, ‘Perform, or you’ll be benched.’ Gambhir doesn’t mince words with anyone.”
“Harshit is only 23. Let’s afford him the time he needs to develop,” Sharvan concluded.
Sharvan did not hold back in criticizing former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth, who had suggested that Rana’s inclusion in the ODI squad for the Australia tour was due to his perceived loyalty to Gambhir, calling him Gambhir’s ‘yes man’.
“Krishnamachari Srikkanth unfairly targeted this young talent,” Sharvan asserted. “While retired cricketers are pursuing new ventures like YouTube channels, it’s crucial not to unfairly scrutinize emerging players. They deserve guidance and constructive criticism, not baseless accusations for online visibility.”
Following India’s dominant 2-0 Test series victory over West Indies earlier this month, Gambhir had himself strongly rebutted Srikkanth’s comments, branding them as ‘shameful’.
Harshit Rana concluded the series as the leading wicket-taker for both teams, a performance that will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to his confidence for future challenges.