Shubman Gill recently spoke on the utility of a fast-bowling all-rounder of the likes of Harshit Rana. Harshit was the pick of the bowlers for the Men in Blue in India's nine-wicket victory in Sydney during the third ODI of the 50-over series against Australia.
Gill explained how unique it was to possess a cricketer like Harshit at a spot where runs with the bat are bonus for the team. He also highlighted the importance of Harshit's hit-the-deck bowling on pitches which don't have a lot to offer for the fast
bowlers.
"The No. 8 position is a really important position for us especially when you have someone who can go and score 20 to 25 runs. There are very few fast bowlers who are long and bowl 140-plus clicks. People like Harshit become very important on these type of wickets or even the ones in South Africa for the World Cup where there is minimal movement off the pitch during middle overs," stated Gill during the post-match conference.
India's ODI skipper mentioned the way the spinners and then Harshit brought about a halt to the momentum the Australian top-order batters had created initially.
"Australia had gotten off to a really good start in the game. The way the spinners created pressure by restricting the flow of runs and then the manner in which Harshit came in and bowled with his full heart, it was really heartening to see the kind of effort he put into his bowling," he added.
India, who were defeated in the first two matches of the series in Perth and Adelaide, came back comprehensively to salvage their pride in Sydney. It was an all-round effort from the players. Australia were bowled out for 236 in 46.4 overs. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli took matters into their own hands to forge an unbeaten 168-run stand for the second wicket.
Gill & Co. will now have their eyes on the T20I series after an underwhelming ODI assignment overall. The T20Is are scheduled to begin on October 29 (Wednesday) and extend to November 8 (Saturday). Gill, who did not really fire with the bat (scores of 24, 9 and 10 in the three ODIs), will hope for a better series ahead.
