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Harshit Rana Not A Part Of India's Squad For 3rd Test vs NZ, Confirms Abhishek Nayar

Abhinav Tyagi

Harshit Rana Wicket- (Source: @KnightClubKKR/X.com)Harshit Rana Wicket- (Source: @KnightClubKKR/X.com)

In a significant development, India's assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has confirmed that Harshit Rana has not been added to the India squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand.

Notably, on Tuesday, October 29, there were reports that Delhi-based bowler Rana has been added to the Indian squad for the third Test and is all set to make his international debut. However, Nayar denied these reports and confirmed that there are no additions. 

Abhishek Nayar Gives Update On Harshit Rana

“No additions to the squad. 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,” Nayar stated in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

Notably, Rana was picked up for the New Zealand series as a travelling reserve but was released from the squad after the first Test to play the Ranji Trophy. Amid this, the KKR star bowler was named in the squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against Australia. 

In the Ranji Trophy, Rana shone with the ball and registered a five-wicket haul and silenced his critics, who questioned his selection for the Border-Gavaksar Trophy. However, the latest reports suggest that Rana might be with the team for the 3rd Test just to prepare for the Australia series.

Abhishek Nayar Clears The Air On Wankhede Pitch

There were reports that after trailing the series 0-2, India have opted for a rank-turner in Mumbai. Further, Nayar stated that India have not asked for a rank-turner track in Mumbai.

“We wish we could curate the pitches, but we don't. As cricketers, we try to play on what is given. Everyone has worked hard whether it is Virat or Rohit or Shubman. They are putting in their hard yards. Sometimes it is about having patience,” the former Mumbai cricketer said. 

It is worth noting that India had opted for a rank-turner in Pune, but the result did not go in their favour.