Harshit Rana declares himself Australian ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Fast bowler Harshit Rana received his maiden call-up in India's Test team for the tour of Australia. It was a huge occasion for the youngster from Delhi as he had been waiting for this moment for a long time.

After his selection, Rana has opened up for the first time. He compared his competitiveness with the Australians and likes playing the game the Australian way. He shared his emotions after seeing his name in India's 18-member squad for the five-match Test series in Australia.

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Harshit Rana breaks silence on his selection for BGT 2024-25

While speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Harshit Rana spoke about his aggressive and competitive attitude and compared it to the Australian way. He revealed his favorite team and feels proud to see his name on the squad for this tour.

"The kind of competitive attitude I like to play cricket with on the field is very similar to Australia's. It was my father's dream that I play a Test against England sometime at Lord's, but I personally like Australia more. I am proud of myself, that my name came up for this tour," Harshit said.

The youngster was expecting an India call-up after being named in the traveling reserves for the first two Tests against New Zealand. He spoke about his personal growth after being with the team and revealed how it has helped him in his career.

"Only when the team was announced did I know I was going to Australia," Harshit said. "But I had indications that I might be selected for the Australia tour because they had me with the team to prepare. Being selected for the Australia tour is a big deal for me," Rana said.

"I have been with the Indian team continuously since the IPL and I have learnt a lot of things there. This lesson is not only about cricket, but also about life, how a sportsperson advances in his career and life. Even as a cricketer, I have grown a lot by being with the Indian team," he added.

Harshit Rana on Gautam Gambhir's influence on him

Harshit Rana further shared his views on Gautam Gambhir's influence on him. The 22-year-old claimed that he has always received backing from India's head coach right from the IPL stint with Kolkata Knight Riders.

"Gambhir (Gambhir) bhaiya has always backed me and if I have to ask anything, I always go to him and talk to him and he always gives me the right guidance. Under him, I have grown a lot in the IPL and he has taught me a lot of things," Rana added.

Harshit Rana's strengths

Harshit Rana and Gautam Gambhir shared the same dressing room in the IPL season this year. Rana had a breakthrough season this year and played a key part in KKR's title win. Gautam Gambhir was the team's mentor.

Rana is a fast bowler capable of bowling at high speeds on a consistent basis. He is tall and can generate good bounce, especially on Australian surfaces. He can be India's X-factor in the Australia Test series but it remains to be seen if he gets a game or not.