The Indian team suffered a disappointing defeat in Adelaide as Australia tied the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at 1-1. For India’s young pacer Harshit Rana, it was a match to forget as he failed to scalp himself and scored 86 runs.

It was a strong reality check for Harshit, who looked in great shape before the pink ball test.

Rana had a dream debut in Perth, where everything seemed to go his way. He claimed three wickets in the first innings, dismissing Travis Head, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. He also had a good performance in the previous practice match, where he scored 4/44.

However, after his fall, Harshit’s father Pradeep Rana, former CRPF hammer thrower and weightlifter, issued a strong warning to his son.

Pradeep Rana told Indian Express: “I challenged him to bowl at 150 kmph. I have told him that I will consider you a player the day you touch 150 kilometers per hour. If you play at 150 km/h, no one will stop you from playing for India, but if you play at 125 km/h, not even a local club will select you.”

Gabba Test could be Harshit Rana’s last chance

Harshit Rana currently bowls at speeds ranging from late 120s to mid-130s, but that’s only half the battle. In Australian countryside especially, speeds below 140-142 km/h may be insufficient. While Perth’s wicket offered some help, the same cannot be said for Adelaide. If given the chance, the upcoming Brisbane Test could serve as Harshit’s last chance to keep his aspirations of playing the longest format for India alive for now.

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Also, it is speculated that Mohammed Shami will join the Indian team in Australia for the final two Tests, which would further reduce Harshit’s chances of making it to the XI.

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