Sydney, Australia – Former Indian captain Kris Srikkanth has publicly recanted his earlier criticisms of young pace bowler Harshit Rana, following Rana's stellar performance in the final One Day International (ODI) against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Srikkanth's change of heart comes after Rana's impressive figures of 4/39 helped India secure a nine-wicket victory, salvaging a consolation win in the series.

Rana's selection for the ODI series had been a subject of debate, with Srikkanth being one of his most vocal critics. Srikkanth had previously questioned Rana's place in the squad, suggesting his inclusion was due to his relationship with head coach Gautam Gambhir.

However, Rana's performance in Sydney appears to have changed Srikkanth's perspective. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth lauded Rana's bowling display. "Harshit Rana bowled superbly. Taking four wickets in an ODI is a big achievement," Srikkanth said. He particularly praised Rana's disciplined line and length, especially during the death overs, and highlighted the wicket of Mitchell Owen as his favorite. "He bowled a terrific line and length. Last match, he got clobbered at the death, but this game, he bowled very well even at the death. He did not bowl short today and did not try too many slower ones," he added.

Srikkanth went on to admit his past criticism of the young bowler. "So today, Harshit Rana deserves all the praise. I am very happy for you. Yes, I criticised you a lot, but at the end of the day, you have done very well," Srikkanth stated. He further noted that Rana seemed to have regained his confidence. "He has got his confidence back from the last match after scoring with the bat and from his first spell with the ball," he said.

Rana's match-winning performance not only drew praise from Srikkanth but also silenced many of his other critics. He finished the series as the leading wicket-taker, with six scalps. His crucial wickets of Alex Carey and Mitchell Owen put Australia on the back foot, paving the way for India's victory.

Behind the scenes, it has been revealed that Rana was under immense pressure to perform. According to Rana's childhood coach, Sharvan, Gambhir had given the young pacer a stern warning ahead of the Sydney game. "Perform kar, warna bahar bitha dunga (Perform or I will make you sit out)," Gambhir reportedly told Rana, as revealed by Sharvan.

Sharvan also criticised Srikkanth for his earlier remarks about Rana. He said that after retirement, cricketers have started YouTube channels to earn money, but they shouldn't scrutinize any kid who has just started playing.

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron also lauded Rana's performance, highlighting his ability to mix pace and control. Aaron suggested that developing a good slower ball would make Rana an even more formidable bowler.

Rana's success in Sydney marks a significant turnaround for the young bowler, proving his mettle and silencing those who doubted his place in the Indian team. He is set to feature in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Australia.