Harshit Rana’s selection sparks debate as ex-selector questions Gautam Gambhir’s influence

Former India selector raises doubts over Harshit Rana’s ODI call-up, hinting at Gautam Gambhir’s role in team choices. The debate reignites concerns about merit and transparency in Indian cricket.

Harshit Rana (Image Credit: BCCI)

The announcement of India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia has brought more than excitement, it has also stirred a storm of controversy. Among the talking points is the inclusion of Harshit Rana, a relatively new face in the national setup. While selectors often look to reward potential, Rana’s call-up has faced sharp criticism from former players, who believe his rise has less to do with performance and more with perceived favoritism.

Ex-chief selector Kris Srikkanth was particularly vocal, suggesting that Rana may have been chosen due to his close association with team mentor Gautam Gambhir. Though he stopped short of dismissing Rana’s ability, Srikkanth’s remarks painted a picture of a selection system vulnerable to outside influence. For a team gearing up for a high-profile tour, such allegations inevitably spark bigger questions about meritocracy.

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Critics argue that several domestic performers with stronger records were overlooked, while Rana’s limited experience at the international stage makes his inclusion hard to justify. The timing of this controversy is crucial, India is entering a transitional period with Shubman Gill leading the ODI side, and each squad spot carries significant weight for future tournaments.

“There is only one permanent member - Harshit Rana. Nobody knows why he is there in the team. You don't pick some irrespective if they do well and take others even if they don't. Best is to be like Harshit Rana and be a constant yes-man to Gambhir to be selected. You should start building towards the 2027 World Cup. But I feel they've not. If you pick Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy among the probabilities, then you can wave goodbye to the trophy," said Srikkanth.

A bigger question of transparency arises after India's squad announcement

Beyond Rana himself, this debate reflects a wider concern in Indian cricket: is the selection process transparent enough? Fans and experts alike often worry that personal loyalties and internal dynamics may tilt decisions. While it is not uncommon for coaches and mentors to back familiar players, the expectation remains that performance and role clarity should be the ultimate criteria.

For Rana, the challenge now is to silence critics on the field. If he can deliver impactful performances against Australia, the conversation may shift from favoritism to foresight. However, if he falters, questions around the fairness of selections will only grow louder.

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