Former India opener Kris Srikkanth has praised young pacer Harshit Rana’s efforts in the second ODI against Australia at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday, October 24, saying the bowler could have been named Player of the Match had India won. Srikkanth highlighted Rana’s crucial contributions with both bat and ball, emphasising his potential despite India’s narrow defeat.

India, led by Shubman Gill, retained Harshit Rana in the playing XI for the Adelaide ODI, while left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav remained on the bench. The selection decision sparked debate among fans, with many questioning the exclusion of Kuldeep.

Harshit Rana, who had struggled in the Perth opener with figures of 0-27 in four overs, was given a second chance due to India’s focus on batting depth. Kris Srikkanth, who had earlier criticised Rana’s selection, was impressed with his initial spell in Adelaide.

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“He bowled very well in his first spell and picked up two key wickets. I thought India had won the match. With that knock of 24 runs and two wickets, he had a chance to be Player of the Match,” Kris Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. However, he was critical of Rana’s second spell, where short-pitched deliveries were exploited by the Australians.

“Bowling short at that pace is no use. Australians love short balls, and we fed them repeatedly. Harshit bowls well over the wicket but gets smashed around the wicket,” Kris Srikkanth added.

Despite the second spell setback, Rana’s quick 24 off 18 balls, including three boundaries, helped India post 264/9. He and Arshdeep Singh added a 37-run partnership for the ninth wicket, providing valuable runs in the lower order. With the ball, Rana claimed important wickets, dismissing Travis Head and Matthew Short, but finished with figures of 2-59 from eight overs. Australia chased the target with two wickets in hand, sealing a 2-0 series lead.

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Harshit Rana, along with India’s other pacers, battled cramps during the match, raising fitness concerns with only a day’s rest before the series decider. The third ODI will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, October 25. Rana’s performance, particularly in the first spell and with the bat, demonstrates his potential as a key all-round contributor, highlighting the promise of India’s young pace talent even in challenging conditions.