"No additions": Abhishek Nayar dashes speculations around the debut of Harshit Rana

The wait for Harshit Rana to make his debut seems likely to extend beyond the India vs. New Zealand Test series. The young pacer was reportedly called up to the India squad ahead of the third and final Test against the Kiwis. Subsequent reports suggested that Rana was set to debut for India at Wankhede, with indications that the Delhi-based seamer would replace Jasprit Bumrah in the Playing XI for the last clash, as India aimed to manage Bumrah’s workload. However, anticipation surrounding Rana’s debut was quashed on Wednesday, as India’s batting coach, Abhishek Nayar denied any “addition” to the India squad for the final match of the red-ball series.

Abhishek Nayar denies any changes in the squad for final India vs New Zealand Test

Harshit Rana was initially named among the reserves when India announced the squad for the three-match home Test series against New Zealand. However, the pacer was subsequently released from the squad to play for Delhi in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Rana delivered a stellar spell, claiming a five-wicket haul in the third-round match against Assam. Following Delhi’s 10-wicket win over Assam, Rana was recalled to the Indian side ahead of the third Test against New Zealand.

Reports of Rana’s inclusion in the squad were soon followed by speculation that he would debut for India at Wankhede. However, addressing the media ahead of the match, India’s batting coach dispelled rumors of the youngster’s debut. Abhishek Nayar further explained that the staff is closely monitoring Bumrah’s workload but noted that the Wankhede pitch would provide ample opportunity for seamers early in the session, indicating Bumrah’s likely availability for the final match.

“No additions to the squad (indicating Harshit Rana). Every week is critical; every day is critical. We have not been narrow-minded in thinking about the WTC final. We want to focus on this match,” said Nayar. “He (Bumrah) has not bowled a lot. He has got ample rest. He is very important to us, and workload is always on our mind. In the morning, there will be swing and seam. At Wankhede, you’ll have pacers with a smile on their face,” he added.

Harshit Rana will now have to wait until the Border Gavaskar Trophy to compete for his debut. His addition to the India squad for the Australia tour comes in the wake of Shami’s absence. Mohammed Shami, India’s primary pacer alongside Jasprit Bumrah, has not yet fully recovered from his ankle injury. While progressing towards fitness, Shami developed another concern around his knee, which has delayed his recovery. Consequently, Shami was left out of the squad for the Australia tour.