“This one’s for you dad" - Harshit Rana on making India debut in 2024-25 BGT 1st Test
Pacer Harshit Rana made his debut for India in the first Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday, November 22, and dedicated the achievement to his father, Pradeep Rana. The Delhi pacer was selected ahead of Akash Deep and received his Test cap from veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
The 22-year-old did not disappoint, delivering a brilliant ball to dismiss Travis Head for 11. He bowled with aggression, taking on Marnus Labuschagne, and ended the day with eight overs, including a maiden, conceding 33 runs and taking one wicket.
After the day's play, Harshit took to Instagram to share his joy about his debut, posting a picture of receiving his cap from Ashwin, while dedicating the moment to his father. He captioned the post:
“CAP 316. A dream that my father and I saw 13 years ago has come true today. This one’s for you dad.”
Harshit had an outstanding IPL 2024 season with Kolkata Knight Riders, claiming 19 wickets in 13 matches and playing a key role in the franchise's third title win. He also boasts an impressive first-class record, having taken 43 wickets in 10 matches, including two five-wicket hauls.
India dominate a day where pacers made their mark in the 2024-25 BGT first Test
After being whitewashed by New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home, India’s start to the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was rocky, as they lost half their side for just 59 runs after choosing to bat first.
However, crucial knocks from wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant (37) and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy (41) helped India recover to 150. Josh Hazlewood was the standout bowler for Australia, claiming four wickets.
India's stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, made a sensational comeback, claiming three wickets in his first four overs. He was well-supported by Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana, as Australia ended Day 1 at a precarious 67 for seven.