Former India opener turned veteran commentator Aakash Chopra expressed surprise at the decision to select Harshit Rana ahead of Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI for the first T20I against Australia at the Manuka Oval in Canberra as well. Chopra also stated that Harshit is yet to prove himself as a reliable No. 8 batter.

During a discussion on ESPNcricinfo, Chopra said: “It’s quite baffling that India’s highest T20I wicket-taker can’t find a place in the playing XI even in Australia. Of course, it didn’t happen in UAE for the Asia Cup. What are the chances of him playing in the World Cup? That’s the first thought that crosses the mind. The biggest takeaway is the philosophy with which this team has been playing for a while – that you need somebody who can bat at No. 8.

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“In this case, Harshit Rana was picked ahead of Arshdeep Singh, not because of his bowling ability, but just because of his batting. You could possibly understand if there is a better, more capable batter playing at No. 8. But, the sample size that we have of Harshit Rana’s batting ability is not big enough to actually suggest that he is a batter who can deliver regularly at No. 8. Harshit Rana doesn’t fit the bill yet,” the veteran shared again.

Earlier, Harshit played all three ODI matches against Australia as well. He picked up six wickets at an average of 20.83 and an economy rate of 6.05 as well. On the other hand, Arshdeep picked up three wickets in two matches at an average of 24 and an economy rate of 5.40 as well.