Harshit Rana Not Included In Squad For 3rd Test, To Bowl In India Nets Ahead Of Mumbai Game: Report

Harshit Rana has not been added to the squad for the third Test against New Zealand as contrary to all the reports. As per a Times of India report, the Kolkata Knight Riders pacer is likely to bowl in the practice nets ahead of the last Test match in Mumbai starting on November 1.Harshit was included in the 18 member squad for the upcoming Australian tour as the Rohit Sharma led Indian team is scheduled to play a five match Test series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Prior to this, Harshit had already been called up in all the three formats but hasn’t made his debut yet. It has definitely provided an upper hand to KKR as the reigning IPL champions will now have the opportunity to retain the pacer for 4 crore as per the uncapped player policy. A source told the Times of India that as Delhi’s next Ranji Trophy match is poised to start on November six, Rana’s service can be utilises in the practice ahead of the must win third Test. "Washington Sundar was added to the squad before the second Test after a meeting among selectors. No such meeting has happened regarding Rana. Realistically, one pacer out of Mohammed Siraj and Akashdeep Singh will partner Jasprit Bumrah, along with three spinners in the eleven. Rana was picked as a reserve bowler for the New Zealand series. With the next Ranji match starting on November 6, he can bowl in the India nets for a couple of days before joining the Delhi squad. As of now, he hasn't been included in the squad."India have already lost the Test series and have to restrict the Kiwis from whitewashing the home side after a gap of 24 years. To keep their World Test Championship hopes alive they have to come up with a win in order to restore some pride.