Gambhir likely to unleash Harshit Rna in 1st Test [Source: @Pallavi_paul21/X.Com]
Well, the Border-Gavaskar Series is just around the corner and both the teams are grinding it out before the 1st Test commences on November 22. For India, this will be a tough test as they are coming into the series on the back of an embarrassing 3-0 defeat Vs New Zealand.
The first game of the riveting series will be played in Perth, one of the fastest surface available. The curator has also warned India that Perth will produce a seaming deck, and so, to prepare for the challenge, India are playing a simulation match at the old WACA stadium which mimics the same conditions.
On Day 1 of the practice match, Indian batters were on show as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant batted for hours and got used to the bouncy conditions. Day 2 belonged to the bowlers as Jasprit Bumrah and other practices hard and bowled a number of overs in the practice match.
However, the big surprise was the backing Harshit Rana got during the practice game. As per reports, Rana bowled long spells and was told to use the short pitched deliveries, something which could be useful on the bouncy Perth deck.
Why is Harshit Rana a solid choice for a spot in playing XI
Harshit Rana could be the X-factor which India needs in the first Test. With Jasprit Bumrah spearheading the attack, the other bowling options don't look promising. Mohammed Siraj has been woefully out of touch and thus, India could go in with an attack of Bumrah, Akash Deep and Harshit Rana for the 1st Test.
As stated, Rana is a hit the deck bowler and will be a useful option at Perth where bowlers get natural bounce. Plus, head coach, Gautam Gambhir trusts him from the KKR days and knows how to get the best out of him.