Emerging fast bowler Harshit Rana has shed light on the invaluable mentorship provided by senior stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, crediting them for fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere within the Indian cricket team. Rana, who impressed in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, emphasized how the guidance from the team's legends is instrumental for young players like himself.
Kohli & Sharma: Pillars of Support for Youngsters
Rana revealed that having Kohli and Sharma in the dressing room and on the field is a massive boost. He described instances during the Ranchi match, where challenging dew conditions made bowling difficult, and the two veterans were actively engaged in offering suggestions and support to the younger bowlers, including himself and Prasidh Krishna.
"This is a huge thing for me and for the team. They always help the youngsters," Rana stated. "They always tell us how to improve. So the team gets better automatically. The environment is very good with them."
When probed further, he characterized the team dynamic as a "happy environment," where players are consistently motivated and backed. "It's a happy environment as they always motivate, back you and tell you what next step to take. Even if you are under pressure on the field, they help you with suggestions," he added.
Mastering the New Ball and Bowling Philosophy
With Jasprit Bumrah absent, Rana shouldered the responsibility of bowling with the new ball in Ranchi. For insights into this crucial role, he turns to bowling coach Morne Morkel and the experienced Arshdeep Singh. "I have been working with Morne. I also consult Arshdeep a lot as he is experienced and always helps me with suggestions," Rana explained.
His spell was notable for a strategic shift to fuller lengths, a departure from his natural tendency to bowl shorter. This adjustment paid rich dividends on a pitch where the ball was skidding on. He clean bowled Ryan Rickleton with a sharp delivery and induced an edge from Quinton de Kock, with both balls clocking around 139 km/h.
Later, he outfoxed Dewald Brevis with a perfectly executed full delivery that shaped away. Throughout his spell, Rana showcased a clever mix of cross-seam deliveries, varied lengths, and changes of pace to keep the batters guessing.
Discussing his approach to bowling in Indian conditions, Rana said, "I like bowling in India as here you depend on variations. In every phase you have to be different- at times attack, sometimes defend."
Tuning Out the Noise: Rana's Mantra Against Criticism
The young seamer also shared his straightforward approach to dealing with external criticism regarding his bowling or selection. For Rana, focus is everything.
"If I get all those into my head, I can't play cricket. I don't care what's said about me outside. I don't read all that. I just focus on what I need to do on the ground," he asserted, highlighting a mindset that allows him to perform without unnecessary pressure.
Rana's reflections offer a glimpse into the cohesive and growth-oriented culture within the Indian team, driven by its senior pros, and underline the confidence of a new generation ready to make its mark.
