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"Won’t be able to play cricket": Harshit Rana hits back at critics amid online trolling

Rajgeeta Yadav

Harshit Rana on how he deals with criticism [Source: AFP]Harshit Rana on how he deals with criticism [Source: AFP]

India young pacer Harshit Rana has recently faced a lot of questions about whether he deserves a place in the national team. But on Sunday, the 23-year-old gave the perfect reply on the field. 

During the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, he bowled a fiery opening spell, taking two early wickets and adding another later to finish with three. His performance left South Africa struggling right from the start.

Harshit Rana counters ‘Gambhir’s favouritism’ allegations

Speaking about how he handles criticism, Rana said he tries not to let outside opinions affect him. He said, 

“I just focus on what I need to do on the ground—my hard work and my processes. What happens outside doesn’t matter. If I start listening to everything on social media, I won’t be able to play cricket. So, I try to avoid it as much as possible.”

Ahead of the second ODI, Rana addressed the media and talked about his performance, staying mentally strong, and learning from senior players. He said having legends like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the dressing room has played a huge role in his development.

"Honestly, it’s a big thing not just for me but for the whole team. When players with so much experience are around you—whether on the field or in the dressing room—the environment becomes very nice. They always tell youngsters that we can do better. That kind of support automatically improves performance,” he said.

“The team is in a very happy and positive space. They always motivate us, whether things go well or not. They guide us on what the next step should be, especially when you are under pressure on the field,” added the 24-year-old.

Rana also spoke about working on his new-ball bowling. He said he’s been practicing a lot with bowling coach Morne Morkel and learning from fellow pacer Arshdeep Singh.

After his impressive three-wicket spell in Ranchi, Rana will now aim to continue his good form in Raipur, where India will take on South Africa in the second ODI on Wednesday.