IND vs NZ: Harshit Rana Joins India’s Squad for 3rd Test Against New Zealand

Prepend to the Content

Read Original Content: IND vs NZ: Harshit Rana Joins India’s Squad for 3rd Test Against New Zealand

Indian cricket team has added 22-year-old pacer Harshit Rana to their squad for the third Test against New Zealand, which begins on Friday, November 1, at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Rana, who was initially a travelling reserve for the series, is likely to make his Test debut in this match.
Rana recently showcased an all-around performance in the Ranji Trophy, playing a pivotal role in Delhi’s 10-wicket victory against Assam.

Released from the Indian squad to participate in the domestic game, Harshit Rana grabbed five wickets in the first innings and two more in the second. Additionally, he contributed 59 runs with the bat to ensure a comfortable win for the Himmat Singh-led Delhi side.

Speaking about his domestic success, Rana said:

“The team management wanted me to play domestic cricket before heading to Australia, and I am glad I could perform well with both bat and ball in this match.”

Delhi coach and former national selector Sarandeep Singh expressed his confidence in Rana, stating:

“He is ready for Test cricket. Playing the Mumbai Test will be good preparation for him before heading to Australia.”

India’s Squad Shuffle for the Final Test

The Indian team management is expected to rest pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the third and final Test, opening the door for Rana to possibly make his debut. Rana was also named in India’s 18-member squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia, which begins on November 22 in Perth.

Rana is among three uncapped players selected for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, joining Bengal batter Abhimanyu Easwaran and Andhra all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy.

India Eyes Consolation Win in Mumbai

After losing the first two Tests—by 8 wickets in Bengaluru and by 113 runs in Pune—India is looking to salvage some pride in the final game of the series. The Tom Latham-led New Zealand side has already clinched the series, and the hosts will aim to end on a positive note with a victory at Wankhede.

With the Australian tour looming, the Mumbai Test offers a perfect opportunity for India to test new players like Rana, especially in the absence of Bumrah. A strong performance from the Delhi pacer could not only boost his confidence but also strengthen India’s bowling lineup ahead of the challenging series down under.

Read Original Content: IND vs NZ: Harshit Rana Joins India’s Squad for 3rd Test Against New Zealand

ProBatsman