Each year, the Indian Premier League (IPL) plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing emerging cricket talents in India, and this year, Harshit Rana emerged as one of those talents. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fast bowler, acquired for ₹20 lakh as a substitute for Rasikh Dar during IPL 2022, took 19 wickets during KKR's victorious campaign this season, finishing as the fifth highest wicket-taker of the tournament.

However, beyond his impressive wicket count, Harshit gained attention for his controversial flying-kiss celebration directed at Sunrisers Hyderabad, which led to disciplinary action. During the match against SRH, after dismissing Mayank Agarwal, Rana performed the flying kiss, resulting in a deduction of 60 percent from his match fee and a warning against repeating the act. Despite facing consequences, Rana clarified that the gesture was spontaneous and not meant to offend anyone.

"I did not intend to perform the flying kiss. When I dismissed Mayank bhaiya… it was a reflex action after he hit the ball in the air, and I happened to be near him during my follow-through. It was instinctive, and the cameraman captured it perfectly. I spoke to him again in the final and assured him there was no ill intent. We share a good rapport, and we had some light-hearted exchanges during the Duleep Trophy match as well," the KKR bowler shared with Shubhankar Mishra on his podcast.

"Since the flying kiss incident, a lot has changed. When people approach me, that is the first thing they mention. It feels gratifying to know that I am remembered for it, and that people associate it with me."

Following the incident, Rana sought reassurance from team owner Shah Rukh Khan, who advised him not to be concerned and to save such expressions for after the IPL. Ultimately, KKR secured their third title, and SRK honored his promise.

Harshit Rana's flying kiss reached the Mumbai Indians dugout

Rana's flying kiss became a sensation, making its way to the Mumbai Indians' dressing room, as evidenced by Rohit Sharma's recreation of the celebration in front of Agarwal prior to MI's match against SRH. Rana disclosed that he had a conversation with the former MI captain regarding his celebration, receiving a notably positive response.

"I spoke with Rohit bhaiya during the MI match. He mentioned, 'if you're enjoying it, continue doing it. There’s no issue with that.'"

The BCCI's disciplinary actions against Rana extended beyond a monetary fine. The KKR fast bowler was subsequently handed a one-match suspension for a second infraction related to Level 1 of the Code of Conduct. While the specific details remain unclear, it is likely connected to his exuberant celebration following the dismissal of Abhishek Porel from the Delhi Capitals. Following this incident, Rana adopted a more restrained demeanor but faced challenges from certain fans to replicate his celebrations against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, which includes the notable Virat Kohli.

Would he have considered it?

"I assure you, I did not plan to perform that celebration in the first match or even in the second. Fans dared me to attempt it during the RCB match, but I did not provoke him [Kohli]. I hold great respect for him and for every player, but no, I would not do it in his presence," Rana stated.

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