'He does too many filmy gimmicks...': Ex-India captain slams Harshit Rana after poor bowling display against Sri Lanka

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth criticised Harshit Rana for his attitude and 'filmy gimmicks' during the match against Sri Lanka in Asia Cup. The pacer failed to contribute much during the game and proved to be quite expensive in his four-over spell. Harshit gave away 54 runs in his spell and even though he picked up the much-needed wicket of Pathum Nissanka for 107 runs, his costly overs kept the Lankan Lions in the game. Srikkanth further stated that Harshit focuses too much on 'shoboating' and doesn't put much effort on the field.

ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan Final: Dubai Police issue guidelines banning Banners, Firecrackers, violators to be slapped with hefty fine

"Harshit Rana does too many filmy gimmicks. All these filmy reactions aren't of any use, you have to actually bowl well. He does all these filmy reactions in the IPL as well. This is not a good attitude, it is just showboating. He drives after the ball is already past him. Why dive after the goal has already been scored? Aggression is different but showboating so much at a young age is why he got punished today," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.

How has Harshit performed in Asia Cup?

Harshit has so far only played two matches in the Asia Cup so far. Before the match against Sri Lanka, he featured in India's final group stage fixture against Oman. The 23-year-old wasn't really able to impress in the matches he played and only picked up two scalps in total.

Srikkanth's views on India's victory

On the other hand, Srikkanth also gave his views on the team's overall performance in the match and highlighted how important the spinners were in the victory. He namedropped both Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, stating how it was their spells that led the Men in Blue to victory.

"India won because of the four overs in the middle from Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy. They both bowled magically. Wrist spinners are always potential match winners, which got proven today. Sri Lanka today exposed the Indian bowling a little bit. Axar Patel can be taken to the cleaners if there is no turn," Srikkanth stated.

What is head-to-head record in IND vs PAK finals?

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are set to clash against each other for the first time in the Asia Cup final. Though the Men in Blue have been dominant over their arch-rivals in recent history, the Men in Green have the upper hand when it comes to the finals. Notably, Pakistan have won three out of the five finals they have played against India and slightly have the upper hand. It remains to be seen how the things will turn out in the upcoming Asia Cup final.