India’s latest debutant Harshit Rana made waves recently after making his India debut on the Australian pitches. He impressed everyone with his pace and bounce against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He wasn’t even a sure pick for Delhi’s team in the Ranji Trophy last year, and now he’s making his international debut. Now, there is room for improvement, but not many Indian cricketers have achieved what Rana has in the past year. His quick growth might surprise many, but not his early coach, NS Negi. He saw the potential in Rana to become a bowler for all formats in India.
From net bowler to IPL and International success
Starting as a net bowler for Gujarat Titans in 2022, Harshit played a big role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL win in 2024. He made a big splash on the international scene with an amazing debut, getting 3/48 in the first inning and 1/69 in the second. This helped India secure their biggest overseas win by 295 runs, leading the series 1-0.
Negi, Harshit’s U19 coach from Delhi, was thrilled by his performance on the bouncy Perth pitch. He believes Harshit can play 70-80 Tests for India. “Harshit is a very talented bowler. He did really well in the last two Ranji Trophy seasons,” said Negi.
Controversial inclusion in the Indian team
Rana’s selection in the Indian XI caused some debate as he had only played about 10 first-class matches. However, head coach Gautam Gambhir pushed for his inclusion for the Australia tour, citing his great bowling stats. In those 10 matches, Harshit took 43 wickets at an average of 24.00 and has a solid batting average of 42.63, including a standout 122* against the North-East Zone.
Beginnings and growth as an all-rounder
Negi met Rana in 2018 when Harshit joined the Delhi U19 team. Negi saw his smooth action and rhythm early on. Rana’s improvement in fitness helped his progress. Negi remarked, “The most important thing is that he is a fighter.” Harshit has shown potential both in bowling and batting. “When I first picked Mayank (Yadav) and Harshit in the team, they were both very raw but promising. I just hope that he continues to work on his fitness and gradually keeps increasing his pace,” said Negi.
Harshit should learn from Jasprit Bumrah
Negi believes Harshit can also contribute with the bat lower in the order, scoring 30-40 runs. “Harshit should keep a check on his fitness and try to learn a lot from the modern-day legend, Jasprit Bumrah. He just needs to back his strengths while bowling and that will help him succeed in the international cricket… he has the talent, bounce and pace”. Negi concluded.
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