The third ODI between Australia and India in Sydney saw a remarkable display of bowling from pacer Harshit Rana, who had been under immense scrutiny for
his underwhelming performances in the first two ODIs, as he silenced his critics with a match-winning spell. But behind his comeback was a stern message from head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Leading into the Sydney ODI, both Rana and Gambhir were under fire. Rana had managed just two wickets for 86 runs in the first two games, continuing an inconsistent run that began during the Asia Cup. His selection ahead of other contenders like
Arshdeep Singh had been questioned, with many alleging favoritism due to his association with Gambhir from their Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) days. His faith in Rana was being tested by experts and fans alike, including former cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth, who accused the coach of bias.
However, ahead of the Sydney clash, he reportedly confronted Rana with a no-nonsense remark. Rana’s childhood coach, Sharvan, revealed that the pacer had called him before the Sydney game, revealing the pressure and his desire to shut the outside noise. According to Sharvan, Gambhir had scolded Harshit badly and made it clear that only consistent performances could keep him in the team.
"He called me and told me that he wanted to shut the outside noise with his performance. I just said, believe in yourself. I know some cricketers say he is close to Gambhir. But Gambhir knows how to identify talent, and he backs them. He has backed a lot of cricketers, and they have done wonders for their team. He in fact scolded Harshit badly. He told him directly, 'perform kar, warna bahar bitunga.' He sends a clear message to whoever you are," Sharvan told TOI.
Meanwhile, at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Rana ended with figures of 4 for 39 in 8.4 overs, helped India bowl out Australia for 236, and secure a nine-wicket win. The performance not only earned India a consolation victory but also placed Rana as the leading wicket-taker of the series, finishing with six scalps at an average of 20.83. Sharvan praised Gambhir for his sharp eye for talent and belief in young players.
"Rana is 23. Let's give him some timeFirst, Krishnamachari Srikkanth took the case of this kid. After retirements, cricketers have started their YouTube channels to earn, but please don't scrutinize any kid who just started. They have the right to guide, scold, but please don't say anything for your YouTube channel's visibility," Sharvan added.
