New Delhi: Harshit Rana’s T20I debut on Friday turned out to be both memorable and unexpected. The 23-year-old right-arm pacer wasn’t initially part of India’s playing XI for the fourth game against England in Pune. However, following an injury to Shivam Dube, who was struck on the helmet by a Jamie Overton delivery on the penultimate ball of India’s innings, Harshit was brought in as a concussion substitute after the break. The change worked in India’s favor, as Harshit delivered an impressive performance, taking 3 wickets for 33 runs in his four overs. He dismissed Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton during his spell.
Harshit’s celebrations after taking wickets were filled with excitement, and the same could be said for India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, who was equally thrilled with his performance. Gambhir, known for his straightforward support of players, has been a big believer in Harshit’s abilities. Notably, Gambhir had mentored Harshit during his time at Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, making him well aware of the pacer’s talent and potential.
Gautam Gambhir’s reactions in the dugout during Harshit Rana’s wickets have gone viral on social media, showcasing the head coach’s pure excitement and support for the debutant. Watch: Gautam Gambhir can’t keep calm as Harshit Rana shines on his T20I debut!
Gambhir reaction after harshit rana took that wicket !!! #INDvsENG #INDVENG pic.twitter.com/yTyq2qS5Uu
— Ronnie | Roshan (@ThugArex) January 31, 2025
Gautam gambhir X Harshit rana pic.twitter.com/F0CYll4k01
— Name cannot be blank (@Quickadii) January 31, 2025
It was an unforgettable and unexpected debut for Harshit Rana on Friday, where the young pacer made an instant impact, with Gambhir’s enthusiastic support catching the attention of fans online.
Harshit Rana’s T20I debut on Friday was both unexpected and memorable. The 23-year-old right-arm pacer wasn’t originally part of India’s playing XI for the fourth game against England in Pune. However, following an injury to Shivam Dube, who was struck on the helmet by a Jamie Overton delivery on the penultimate ball of India’s innings, Harshit was brought in as a concussion substitute after the innings break. The change worked in India’s favor, as Harshit delivered an impressive performance, taking 3 wickets for 33 runs in his four overs. He dismissed Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Overton, helping India secure a crucial victory.
While Harshit Rana’s celebrations following his wickets were filled with sheer joy, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir shared a similar level of excitement. Known for his unwavering support, Gambhir has always believed in the pacer’s potential. Notably, Gambhir mentored Harshit during their time at Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, which made him well aware of Harshit’s abilities.
Gambhir’s reactions while sitting in the dugout during Harshit’s wickets have gone viral on social media, capturing his uncontainable enthusiasm and pride for the debutant.
India went on to win the game by 15 runs, securing the series against England with one match remaining.
Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube were the key contributors, putting on a crucial 87-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Their efforts lifted India from a precarious 79 for 5 to 181 for 9 after being invited to bat first in the fourth match in Pune.
Rana and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi were the heroes with the ball, both taking three wickets each to help bowl out England for 166, sealing a 15-run victory and an unbeatable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
“It is still a dream debut for me,” said Rana. “When Dube came back, after two overs I was informed I would be the concussion substitute.”
India extended their unbeaten T20I series record to 17 matches at home since 2019, continuing their dominance in the format.
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