After just two Test matches, Harshit Rana has come to understand the realities of competing at the highest level. He has already experienced the fluctuations inherent in Test cricket. During his debut in Perth, Rana seemed to be in perfect form, claiming three wickets in the first innings by dismissing Travis Head, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon. His performance in the practice match was equally commendable, where he achieved figures of 4/44. However, Rana soon grasped the unpredictable nature of Test cricket, as he faced a challenging outing in Adelaide. In the day-night Test, India struggled, and Harshit found it difficult to adapt to the pink ball, conceding 86 runs without taking a wicket, leading to a 10-wicket defeat that levelled the series.

As the team prepares to return to traditional red-ball Test matches in five days, with Brisbane set to host the third Test, Harshit’s position in the lineup is uncertain. With reports suggesting the return of Mohammed Shami and Akash Deep waiting in the wings, Harshit may find himself at risk of exclusion. Regardless of the outcome, as the young player navigates this early uncertainty in his career, he can benefit from the advice given by his father.

"I have challenged him to bowl at 150 kph. I have told him that I will consider him a player the day he reaches that speed," stated Pradeep Rana, Harshit's father and a former hammer thrower and weightlifter for the CRPF, in an interview with Indian Express. "If he can bowl at 150 kph, no one will prevent him from representing India, but if he only bowls at 125 kph, even a local club may not select him."

Time is on Harshit Rana's side

Harshit is only 22 years old. As time progresses, his muscle development and pace are expected to improve. However, he is acutely aware of the intense competition he faces. Players like Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan are also eager to make their mark in Test cricket. Harshit possesses the qualities of a formidable fast bowler. His playful gestures towards batters during the IPL resulted in a suspension, and his interactions with former KKR teammate Mitchell Starc during the Perth Test garnered significant media attention. Nevertheless, these incidents will amount to little if Harshit does not elevate his performance.

India needs a dynamic fast bowler. While Shami and Siraj are commendable, the absence of Umran Malik has highlighted the necessity for a bowler capable of consistently delivering in the late 140s, particularly in SENA countries. With Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah as the established top three, the team is well-equipped. However, should any of them begin to falter, players like Arshdeep, Harshit, or Avesh will be poised to step in. Additionally, Yash Dayal has recently been integrated into the Indian Test squad.

Currently, Harshit is bowling in the late 120s to mid-130s, which is only a partial achievement. On Australian pitches, particularly, speeds below 140-142 may prove insufficient. He benefited from the conditions in Perth but faced challenges in Adelaide. If presented with an opportunity, Brisbane could represent Harshit's crucial chance to sustain his aspirations of playing Test cricket for India.

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