Ranchi, India – In a thrilling encounter at the JSCA International Stadium Complex on November 30, 2025, India secured a 17-run victory against South Africa in the first ODI of their three-match series. The win was largely propelled by a strong batting performance and a game-changing opening spell from young fast bowler Harshit Rana. However, Rana's performance has been a talking point not just for his wickets, but also for the social media scrutiny he often faces.
Rana's early strikes rattled the South African top order, dismissing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock in the same over. Rickelton was clean bowled by an inswinger, while de Kock edged one behind to the keeper. He later added the crucial wicket of Dewald Brevis, finishing with figures of 3/65 in his 10 overs. His impactful performance earned praise from the Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, who acknowledged that without Rana's early breakthroughs, defending their score of 349 would have been a difficult task due to the heavy dew.
Despite his contributions on the field, Rana has been a subject of intense scrutiny on social media, with many questioning his selection in the team across all three formats. Some fans and even former national selector Kris Srikkanth have alleged that he receives preferential treatment from head coach Gautam Gambhir, a claim Rana has refuted.
Addressing the media ahead of the second ODI in Raipur, Rana responded to the criticism with a stoic and determined outlook. "Look, sir, if I listen to all these things and get into the ground by putting pressure on my mind, then I don't think I will be able to play cricket," Rana stated. "So, I try to avoid it as much as possible. I just pay attention to what I have to do on the ground. I don't care about what is happening outside or what someone is saying about me. My only focus is on the hard work that I need to do on the ground".
Rana's journey has been one of learning and adaptation. While known for his ability to bowl "heavy balls," he has demonstrated a willingness to evolve his bowling style, as seen in the Ranchi ODI. He has been working closely with India's bowling coach Morne Morkel and fellow pacer Arshdeep Singh to hone his new-ball skills. Rana also acknowledged the positive influence of senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating that their presence in the dressing room and on the field creates a happy environment and provides valuable guidance.
The young pacer's ability to block out the external noise and focus on his game is a testament to his mental fortitude. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Harshit Rana aims to be a valuable asset to the Indian team, undeterred by the opinions and criticisms that come his way.
India leads the three-match series 1-0. The second ODI is scheduled for December 3, 2025, at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur.
