Harshit Rana Likely To Make Test Debut In Perth: Report – News18

Last Updated:November 19, 2024, 07:08 IST

According to a report, 22-year-old Harshit impressed with his bowling performance in the match simulation last week and is likely to get a game in Perth.

22-year-old right-arm pacer Harshit Rana, who has earned his maiden India Test call-up for the upcoming five-match series against Australia, is likely to make his international debut for India in Perth during the first Test, which is scheduled to start on Friday, November 22. According to a report in the Times of India on Tuesday (November 19), Rana, who impressed with his performances for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, after which he was added to Indian teams, will be part of India’s playing XI during the series opener.

As per the available information, Rana impressed during the match simulation at WACA Stadium in Perth last week, which is why there is a very good chance that he will get a game.

“Harshit was very impressive in the match simulation at Perth, especially while bowling his bouncers. There’s a good chance that he will make his India debut at Perth,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI.

Rana has a experience of playing in 10 First Class matches so far in which he has managed to pick up 43 wickets. In addition to his bowling, the right-arm pacer has scored 469 runs and has one century and two fifties to his name.

It has also been reported that Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal, who has been asked to stay back in Australia as backup, will be added to India’s squad for the series opener, and in the absence of Shubman Gill, who is out due to a thumb injury, he will bat at No. 3.

“He is likely to bat at No. 3 spot now,” a source told TOI.

The left-handed batter had made his Test debut for India against England in Dharamsala on March 7, 2024, and scored 65 runs in the first inning. The 24-year-old cricketer also played in the two unofficial Tests for India A against Australia A earlier this year and scored 36, 88, 26 and 1 run. He was preferred over the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sai Sudharsan due to his experience and familiarity with the Australian conditions.

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test. Bumrah last captained India in a Test match in July 2022 against England.

Location :

Perth (Australia)