When expressing his thoughts on the selection of pacer Harshit Rana for India’s ODI series against Australia, former Indian cricketer R Ashwin was unreserved. Despite making few appearances in the playing XI, the young fast bowler has managed to secure a spot in the Indian squad in all three forms.
Ashwin acknowledged that he didn’t understand why Rana was chosen. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the BCCI selection committee, did not provide further details on the reasoning behind the choice.
According to Ashwin, Harshit Rana ability to contribute with the bat may have played a role in his selection.
“I don’t know why they are choosing him. To find out why he was chosen, I would really like to attend the selection meeting. In my opinion, this is because India needs a quick bowler who can also bat. He is being chosen as a possible No. 8 because someone believes he can bat. However, I have doubts about his batting prowess. In the IPL final two years ago, he produced a fantastic, quick delivery that went off the edge (Nitish Kumar Reddy was out). For that one delivery, he has been playing for a while,” Ashwin posted on his YouTube page.
Although he expressed some disapproval of Harshit Rana selection, the right-arm spinner made it apparent that he does not question the pacer’s ability. Speaking candidly, Ashwin stated that it was highly dubious to have Harshit Rana in the squad.
However, he is unquestionably skilled with the ball. If someone claims he lacks the expertise, I won’t take it. He most certainly does. These choices can occasionally be made as a result of closely observing a player and developing faith in him. Ravindra Jadeja is hailed as a fantastic player by everyone these days. However, there was a period when people questioned Ravindra Jadeja’s selection. Even though I’ve taken 540 wickets, some people have questioned why I was chosen, Ashwin stated.
“A lot of individuals base their judgemental decisions on presumptions. However, we won’t know until we confront the reality. From a distance, Harshit Rana may also appear in some manner. However, you won’t realise he has something until you’re hit hard by him. He has some X-factor, so let’s not overlook that. Whether or whether he merits selection is a minor concern. However, it’s really doubtful in my opinion if he merits selection at this time,” he said.
India
