Harshit Rana added to Team India's squad for 3rd Test against New Zealand - Reports
According to a report by the Indian Express, emerging pacer Harshit Rana has been included in the Team India squad for the upcoming third Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin from November 1 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The move comes after his inclusion in the squad for the Border-Gavaskar series in Australia.
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir had spoken about the fast bowlers' load since the beginning of the home season. While the general consensus was that a decision will be taken depending on how the second Test pans out, India might have no choice regarding the matter heading into the series finale.
With Jasprit Bumrah having played four grueling matches on the trot, coupled with the fact that Mohammed Siraj is far from his best, Harshit Rana could prove to be a valuable addition. The surface at the Wankhede Stadium also assists pace and bounce, and the youngster could use an appearance in familiar territory rather than being unveiled in hostile Australian territory.
Rana is yet to make his international debut despite receiving his maiden call-up right after the T20 World Cup 2024. He was close to making his first appearance for India in the dead rubber clash against Bangladesh in Hyderabad, but it was delayed due to a bout of viral fever.
He was part of the Indian squad for the ongoing series against New Zealand as a travelling reserve, but was released from the squad to feature in the Ranji Trophy.
Harshit Rana picked up a fifer and scored a fifty in the recent Ranji clash against Assam
The pacer has showcased in recent appearances why he is being fast-tracked into the main squad. Featuring for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy clash against Assam, Rana scored 59 in the first innings to help his side post 454 runs. With the ball, he picked up seven wickets in total, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings.
Earlier, he also had a prolific Duleep Trophy campaign, picking up eight wickets while also chipping in with a couple of cameos for India D.