Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir Deliver Direct Message: Unveil Harshit Rana Instead of Protecting Him
After India’s disappointing start in the ODI series against Australia, concerns were raised about the team’s selection choices. In the first match held in Perth on October 19, 2025, the team opted to include Harshit Rana in the playing XI over the experienced Kuldeep Yadav. Rana’s performance was underwhelming; he scored just one run off two balls and conceded 27 runs in four overs during the rain-affected match.
Reactions to Harshit Rana’s Performance
Former India A captain Priyank Panchal expressed his dissatisfaction on social media, urging the management to reconsider their strategy regarding Rana. He emphasized that if the team sees potential in Rana to strengthen their batting order at No. 8, they must allow him to experience the role fully instead of shielding him with an additional batter.
Suggestions for Team Changes
- Panchal proposed the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the next ODI.
- He recommended substituting Kuldeep for either Washington Sundar or Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Panchal’s tweet read, “If Harshit Rana is being seen as someone who can tonk the ball at No. 8, we should expose him to that role in the next two years and not shield him.” He noted that Kuldeep should be the choice to add wicket-taking capability, especially in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence.
Virat Kohli’s Return
India’s defeat was further compounded by Virat Kohli’s unexpected return to form. After more than six months away, Kohli’s comeback was marked by an unfortunate eight-ball duck, caught by Cooper Connolly following a mishit against Mitchell Starc.
Support from Teammates
Arshdeep Singh downplayed the significance of Kohli’s early dismissal, asserting that the seasoned batter is capable of turning things around quickly. Singh stated, “Form is just a word for him. He knows how to get going,” highlighting Kohli’s extensive experience in ODI cricket. Arshdeep expressed confidence that Kohli would soon find his rhythm during the series.
As the team prepares for the next ODI, Panchal’s insights into Harshit Rana’s role and Kohli’s future performances will be critical for India’s strategy moving forward against Australia.
