Harshit Rana breaks silence on concussion substitute controversy after a stellar ODI debut

India’s newest fast bowling sensation, Harshit Rana, has had a terrific start to his One Day International (ODI) career after making an impressive T20I debut against England earlier this month. The Delhi lad made his ODI debut on February 6 against England in Nagpur.

The 23-year-old pacer had a tough start, as he conceded 11 runs in his first over and then faced a brutal attack by Phil Salt, who hammered the debutant for a record 26 runs in an over during the Indian cricket team’s four-wicket win over England in the three-match ODI series opener in Nagpur.

Harshit Rana shuts down critics with a stellar performance on ODI debut

However, Harshit Rana made a strong comeback with an impressive second spell, proving his resilience and potential at the highest level. The pacer turned the game around by delivering a stunning performance, taking 3 wickets for 53 runs in seven overs, and played a key role in India’s win.

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However, after the Men in Blue took a 1-0 lead in the ongoing three-match ODI series against England in Nagpur, Rana had to face a query regarding the concussion substitute controversy, and the youngster came up with a very straightforward response to shut down all the critics.

The 23-year-old fast bowler recently found himself at the center of a heated controversy over India’s concussion substitute decision in the fourth T20I match against England. He was brought in to replace Shivam Dube, who suffered a helmet blow during India’s batting in Pune.

I'm not bothered: Harshit Rana on concussion substitute controversy

The move raised many eyebrows as Shivam Dube is known for his batting all-rounder role, while Rana’s sole role is as a fast bowler. Rana had finished with a match-winning spell of 3/33 in Pune that led many to slam the hosts for taking the unfair advantage against England.

After the Nagpur ODI, Rana made it clear that he wanted to leave the controversy behind and focus on his journey. The Indian fast bowler’s determined attitude highlighted his desire to move past distractions and concentrate on making an impact on the field.

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Harshit Rana said at the post-match presentation: “I believe that people will keep on talking. I just want to play, good or bad. I'm not bothered; I just want to deliver for my country. I don't pay attention to those talks.”

Harshit Rana opens up about his expensive over and ODI debut

The fast bowler revealed that he learned about his ODI debut upon arriving at the ground in Nagpur. Rana further noted, “You get to know only when you come to the ground. Mentally, I'm always prepared whenever I come to the ground. I know that I can play anytime, anything can happen. So, mentally, I always keep myself prepared.”

Harshit also admitted that ODI cricket is challenging because it requires bowling 10 overs and playing different roles in various phases. 'But if you practice it (well), it's good," said the bowler.

Rana signed off by saying on his expensive over, “There are always ups and downs in cricket, I only wanted to focus on my length, bowl where I have to, and I got the reward for that later. I didn't do anything different in my second spell, just focused on hitting the right areas.”