The third Test match between India and New Zealand is set to begin on November 1 in Mumbai. Harshit Rana has been included in the Indian squad for this match. He had previously traveled with the team but was later released to play in the Ranji Trophy. However, he has now been called back to the squad, raising the possibility of him making his debut at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. New Zealand currently holds an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the series, giving India a chance to end the series on a respectable note in Mumbai.
Right-arm fast bowler Harshit Rana might get the opportunity to debut in the Mumbai Test, as the team management is considering resting vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah has played four consecutive Tests and is set to participate in a five-match Test series against Australia soon. With his workload in mind, the management could give Harshit Rana a chance, especially since he has also been selected for the Australia tour.
In IPL 2024, Harshit Rana took 19 wickets in 13 matches for KKR. Additionally, he has performed well in domestic cricket, recently claiming a five-wicket haul in a Ranji match. Although he traveled with the team for three white-ball series, he did not get a debut opportunity. Now, it is expected that this young pacer might make his debut. For the third Test, Mohammed Siraj might replace Akash Deep as a pacer, potentially forming a bowling partnership with Harshit in Mumbai.