Here’s a story that proves why cricket is as much about resilience as it is about talent. Imagine being publicly criticized by a legend, only to silence them with a performance that leaves everyone in awe. That’s exactly what Harshit Rana did in Sydney, and it’s a moment that’s got the cricket world buzzing. But here’s where it gets controversial—was his selection really just because of his ties to Gautam Gambhir, or did he always have the potential to shine? Let’s dive in.
On October 26, 2025, Harshit Rana turned the tables on his critics in spectacular fashion. After a lackluster start in the first two matches of the series, the 23-year-old fast bowler delivered a fiery spell in the final ODI against Australia, claiming figures of 4 for 39 in 8.4 overs. His performance was nothing short of a statement—a blend of raw pace, precision, and control that helped bowl Australia out for 236. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t just about the wickets; it was about the confidence he exuded, especially after being under the microscope for weeks.
Earlier in the month, when the BCCI announced the squad, former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth had openly questioned Harshit’s inclusion. Srikkanth suggested that Harshit was picked solely because he was Gautam Gambhir’s ‘yes man,’ a claim that sparked heated debates. The criticism didn’t stop there—social media was flooded with memes targeting the young bowler, adding to the pressure. Even Gambhir himself had to step in, defending Harshit during a media conference after the West Indies Test series. But the real test was on the field, where Harshit initially struggled, managing just two wickets in the first two games.
However, Sydney became his redemption ground. His maiden four-wicket haul in ODIs wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was a moment that forced even his harshest critics to take notice. Srikkanth, in a surprising turn of events, ate his words on his YouTube channel, praising Harshit’s performance. ‘Yes, I criticised you a lot, but today you deserve all the praise,’ he admitted. This isn’t just a story of a player proving his worth—it’s a reminder that growth often comes from adversity.
And here’s where it gets even more intriguing. Captain Shubman Gill highlighted Harshit’s unique role as a bowling all-rounder, batting at No. 8. Gill pointed out that in conditions like South Africa, where the 2027 World Cup will be hosted, bowlers with pace and height like Harshit could be game-changers. ‘There are very few fast bowlers who can bowl 140 plus, and on such wickets, they become invaluable,’ Gill explained. But is this enough to secure Harshit’s spot in the long run? That’s a question that divides opinions.
Was Harshit’s Sydney heroics a one-off, or is he here to stay? Some argue that his performance was a direct response to the pressure, while others believe it’s a sign of untapped potential. What do you think? Did Srikkanth’s criticism light a fire under Harshit, or was this always in the cards? Let’s keep the debate going in the comments—because in cricket, as in life, there’s always more than one side to the story.
