Indian pacer Harshit Rana credited captain Jasprit Bumrah and star batsman Virat Kohli for their constant guidance during the ongoing Perth Test against Australia, which proved to be instrumental in his impressive debut performance. The 22-year-old made his debut alongside all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in the high-stakes Border Gavaskar Trophy opener and made a significant impact with a crucial 3/48 spell that helped India seize control of the match.
Speaking at the press conference after Day 2, Rana acknowledged the support of Bumrah and Kohli, highlighting how their advice boosted his confidence and helped him deal with the challenges of the tough Perth pitch and the Australian batters. The young pacer, who dismissed key players including the dangerous Travis Head, revealed how both senior players guided him on his lines, lengths and mental approach, helping him stay focused under pressure.
AUS vs IND, Perth Test Day 2: Highlights
“Jassi bhai (Jasprit Bumrah) kept telling me what to do and Virat bhai also gave advice. These things help a lot. Jassi bhai or Virat bhai, whoever came, they kept giving me inputs on what needed to be done in bowling , where to put the ball, where not to put it. So that thing brought a different confidence in myself: ‘Yes, they tell me I will do well,’” Rana said.
The Indian bowlers turned the tide of the match after the team’s batters struggled on Day 1 and scored just 150 runs. While Bumrah led the charge with a phenomenal 5/30 spell, Rana’s three wickets and Mohammed Siraj’s 2/20 contributed to a collective bowling masterclass that saw Australia bundled out for just 104. Rana’s dismissal of Travis Head, who had been in excellent form leading the series, was particularly crucial, reducing Australia’s chances of building any momentum.
India are batting on day 2 fortunes were revived by openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswalwhich delivered an unbeaten partnership of 172 runs. Both players showed resilience and adaptability, with Jaiswal nearing his maiden Test century on Australian soil and Rahul silencing the critics with a composed and unbeaten 62. Their efforts helped India secure a commanding lead of 218 runs, paving the way for an exciting Day 3.
Rana’s stellar debut, combined with the collective brilliance of India’s bowling attack and the resurgence of the openers, has positioned the team in a dominant position. Coached by stalwarts like Bumrah and Kohli, Rana’s performances not only highlighted his potential but also showed the team’s ability to nurture young talent in high-pressure situations.
Published by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
November 23, 2024
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