Chennai, September 13, 2024 – Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has expressed his approval of the BCCI’s selection committee for picking a strong 16-member squad for the upcoming opening Test match against Bangladesh. However, he also raised a pertinent question: Could there have been space for another fast bowler, either in place of Yash Dayal or alongside the uncapped player?
The BCCI’s selection committee, led by Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar, has put together a formidable squad for the Test series against Bangladesh. The squad includes seasoned players and promising newcomers, ensuring a balanced team ready to take on the challenges ahead.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Karthik highlighted the impressive performance of Kolkata Knight Riders star Harshit Rana. Rana earned his maiden India call-up earlier this summer for the ODI series in Sri Lanka. Karthik believes that Rana’s recent form, particularly his performance in the Duleep Trophy, warranted a place in the Test squad.
In the opening round of the Duleep Trophy, Harshit Rana showcased his talent by picking up four wickets in the first innings for India D against the C team in Anantapur. Karthik noted, “I just thought, could there have been a spot for Harshit? I felt he bowled well and there is something really special about him. But they already have four good medium pacers.”
Earlier in July, Harshit Rana earned an India call-up after a memorable campaign for KKR, where he picked 19 wickets in 13 matches at a strike rate of 13.31. This performance made him the most successful uncapped bowler and the fifth-highest wicket-taker overall in the tournament.
After the opening round of the Duleep Trophy, Akash Deep emerged as the fourth pacer for India, impressing the selectors with his nine-wicket haul for India A. However, the contest for back-up pace options remains open as India builds towards the Border-Gavaskar Test series in Australia in December.
Karthik believes that Agarkar and the selection committee should consider Harshit Rana for the Border-Gavaskar series. “Harshit Rana has special skills, a good backspin on the ball, kisses off the pitch, and is a very talented fast bowler. I really wish they take him to Australia because he will make a difference there,” Karthik said.
Harshit Rana has so far made only eight appearances in first-class cricket, picking up 32 wickets for Delhi at an average of 25.31. Following the Duleep Trophy, the 22-year-old will focus on the Ranji Trophy next month to push his case for an India Test selection.
The upcoming Test series against Bangladesh is crucial for India as they aim to maintain their top spot in the World Test Championship standings. The squad, led by Rohit Sharma, includes a mix of experienced players and young talents, ensuring a well-rounded team ready to face Bangladesh.
While Dinesh Karthik has given a thumbs-up to the BCCI’s selection committee for their squad selection, his suggestion to include Harshit Rana highlights the depth of talent in Indian cricket. Rana’s impressive performances in domestic cricket and his potential to make a difference in international matches make him a player to watch out for in the future.
As India prepares for the Test series against Bangladesh, the focus will be on maintaining their top spot in the World Test Championship standings. The inclusion of young talents like Harshit Rana in future squads could further strengthen India’s bowling attack and provide more options for the selectors.
Stay tuned for more updates as India gears up for an exciting and pivotal Test series against Bangladesh.
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