Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin feels that Harshit Rana’s selection in ODI and T20I squads for Australia tour is questionable but he should not be subjected to trolling from fans on social media. Ashwin believes that Rana has been backed not just for his bowling but because someone has belief in his batting ability as well.
“You asked me about 5 points that would have gone in favour of Harshit during the selection meeting. I also want to know that. But, I think, I can list two of them. In Australia, you might need a bowler who can bat. You might be wondering if he can bat. I think someone believes he can bat, that is why they are playing him at No. 8. I think someone trusts him he can bat. If you ask me if he has the ability in his bowling, I will definitely say it’s there. I won’t accept anyone saying he doesn’t have the talent,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
The 39-year-old says that there is a need for constructive criticism but not senseless trolling. He pointed out that young pacer has an X-factor about him despite the debate around him deserving a spot in the squad.
“But, if you ask me why the selection sometimes, a player gives the belief that he is good enough to those who have watched him from close quarters. And I want to say one thing to sporting fans, don’t speak ill or don’t shame someone. Players are sometimes picked based on conviction. Those who have played the sport, they are picking a player based on conviction. Whether he deserves or not is a secondary thing. He has got some X-factor. Does he deserve a spot now? I think it’s questionable. But let’s not talk about him or his selection in a derogatory fashion,” he added.
Rana leaks runs in T20 Asia Cup 2025
Rana took just two wickets from as many games in the T20 Asia Cup 2025. After 1/25 in three overs against Oman, he conceded 54 runs against Sri Lanka.
Rana’s career numbers
From three T20Is, he has five wickets, including a three-fer against England on debut as concussion substitute for Shivam Dube. His economy rate of 10.18 runs per over in the format is unimpressive. In ODIs, he has 10 wickets at an average of 20.70. He has had experience of bowling on Australian wickets in his debut Test series. He claimed just four wickets from two Tests at an average of 50.75.
How Rana performed against Australia A in One-Dayers?
Against Australia A in the recently concluded unofficial ODI series in Kanpur, he played two games. In the rain-affected game, he bowled three overs and conceded 16 runs. In the decider, he bowled 9.1 overs, conceded 61 runs and claimed three wickets.