A 22-year-old fast bowler Harshit Rana from Delhi has been named in India’s ODI squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. Rana, who represented Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, has expressed immense joy and gratitude in an  interview with PTI.

Harshit Rana attributes success to his family and Gautam Gambhir 

The first thing Rana said was that he never lost hope, no matter the challenges he faced. “Delhi mai Dil toot sakta hai per humne kabhi haar nahi maani (Delhi can break your heart, but I never lost hope).”

Rana spoke candidly about the times he felt overlooked and how his father’s unwavering support kept him motivated. “I believe in working hard, but I sit in my room and start sobbing whenever I get hurt after being overlooked in age-group teams. My father, Pradeep, never gave up hope.”

The right-arm pacer credited his breakthrough to three pivotal figures in his life: his father Pradeep, his coach Amit Bhandari, and KKR coach Gautam Gambhir.” If I must name three people whom I credit in this beautiful journey of mine, then it is my father for his efforts, my personal coach Amit Bhandari Sir, and above everyone else, Gauti bhaiya (Gautam Gambhir),” he added.

Rana also took to Instagram to share his emotions and gratitude.

“This BELONGS to you… LOVE YOU DAD,” he captioned his Instagram post.

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Rana highlights Gambhir’s transformative influence on his career

Rana further elaborated how Gambhir, in particular, has played a transformative role in his career. “Gauti bhaiya always tells me, ‘Mere ko tere pe trust hai. Tu match jeetake aayega.’ (I trust you; you can win the match).”

Rana recounted, emphasising the confidence and encouragement Gambhir has instilled in him.

“If you ask about the pressure, it is Gautam Gambhir’s advice. He will say, ‘What’s the worst thing that will happen? You will get hit, and we will lose the match. But how will you overcome your fears if you do not face them?’

Rana’s rise in cricket: Ranji Trophy success to white-ball excellence

Rana’s cricketing journey started on a high note with a stellar performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he took 28 wickets in just 7 games. However, injuries have since limited his appearances in red-ball cricket. Despite these setbacks, Rana has excelled in white-ball cricket, taking 22 wickets in 14 games during the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 28 wickets in 25 T20 matches.

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