Harshit Rana set to be released from Team India Test squad; will play for Delhi in upcoming Ranji Trophy clash - Reports
Emerging pacer Harshit Rana, currently part of the Indian Test squad as a traveling reserve, will be released from the setup to partake in the Ranji Trophy season for Delhi. The right-arm pacer narrowly missed out on a national debut during the recent home T20I series against Bangladesh.
Rana is expected to feature in Delhi's upcoming home clash against Assam at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, scheduled to begin on Saturday, October 26. According to a report by the Times of India, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) management requested that Rana be made available for domestic cricket to tackle their bowling crisis.
Veteran Navdeep Saini will be unavailable for Delhi as he has been named in the India A squad for the Australia tour. Delhi also face other injury concerns following their scrappy draw against Tamil Nadu.
Harshit Rana's last red-ball appearance came during the Duleep Trophy for India D, where he impressed with eight wickets in two matches. After including Washington Sundar in the mix and boasting a prominent bench, Team India have parted ways with the other traveling reserves.
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy played for Andhra recently, preparing for the Australia tour after being named in the India A squad. Speedster Mayank Yadav, who has made a strong start to his international career, has also been released ahead of the four-match T20I series against South Africa.
Rana will lead Delhi's bowling attack in the clash against Assam
Delhi's struggles have continued into the new season after a dismal last couple of years. They began their campaign with a tame draw against Chhatisgarh, and after another draw against Tamil Nadu, they are placed fifth in their group.
Harshit Rana, 22, is placed with the task of leading the attack. He has had a memorable year, beginning with a fruitful 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Delhi are eyeing a new direction as far as their pace attack is concerned after they decided against including veteran Ishant Sharma for the season.