Ind vs Aus T20Is: Former India all-rounder backs Harshit Rana for first match

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has voiced his support for young pacer Harshit Rana’s inclusion in India’s playing XI for the opening T20I against Australia. Pathan believes Rana has earned the opportunity after impressing with both bat and ball during the recent ODI series, showing maturity under pressure and contributing crucially in key moments.

Rana, who faced scrutiny ahead of the series, proved his worth by scoring an unbeaten 24 in the second ODI and later delivering a match-winning four-wicket spell in Sydney that helped bowl Australia out for just 236. His performance set up a comfortable chase, with skipper Shubman Gill departing early for 24 before Rohit Sharma (121*) and Virat Kohli (74*) combined for an unbeaten partnership to seal India’s victory in commanding fashion.

Pathan highlighted that Rana’s lower-order resilience and bowling prowess add valuable depth to the side, potentially giving India a perfect team balance.

Also Read: Ind vs Aus ODIs: Former India star gives bold verdict on Harshit Rana

“Harshit Rana’s cameo in the second ODI would have given the Indian think tank a lot of confidence. If he bats at No. 8, India can have a solid lineup till No. 7, with two all-rounders — Dube and Axar — who can easily give you six overs combined. Then you can fit in two pacers, Arshdeep and Jasprit. The question is — who becomes your frontline spinner?” Pathan remarked on his YouTube channel.

The veteran cricketer also weighed in on India’s spin-bowling choice, favoring Varun Chakaravarthy over Kuldeep Yadav. He explained that Chakaravarthy’s ability to bowl during the powerplay and his element of mystery could offer India a strategic advantage.

“I’d lean towards Chakaravarthy because he can bowl a couple of overs in the powerplay if required, and India could use that mystery factor. But if the management opts for Kuldeep instead, that wouldn’t be a bad call either,” Pathan added.