Team India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad has sparked widespread debate, and the biggest talking point is the surprise inclusion of young pacer Harshit Rana.
While the selectors see him as a promising future prospect, several former cricketers are questioning whether Rana truly deserved a place in such a crucial tournament.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad reveal has sent cricket fans into a spin, especially due to the inclusion of Kolkata Knight Riders pacer Harshit Rana.
Veteran commentator and former cricketer Aakash Chopra didn’t mince words—calling Rana’s selection “extremely ordinary” and insisting that “his case needs to be discussed.” The decision has sparked fresh debate on the criteria used by chief selector Ajit Agarkar and his panel.
Aakash Chopra expressed his dissatisfaction, pointing out that Rana’s overall record doesn’t reflect the kind of consistency required for a big event like the Asia Cup.
“He came in as a concussion replacement—but his form before and after that was average. His IPL numbers were extremely ordinary, and I don’t understand what led to this selection,” Chopra remarked.
The former opener highlighted how players such as Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna were sidelined despite putting up stronger performances.
“What message are we giving to bowlers like Siraj or Prasidh Krishna, who have been consistent and proven themselves in tough conditions? Rana’s case really needs to be looked at carefully,” Chopra added.
Harshit Rana’s International Stats So Far
Despite the criticism, Harshit Rana’s brief international career has seen some bright sparks. He has already created history by becoming the first Indian pacer to pick three wickets on debut in all three formats – Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Here’s a look at his international record:
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Best Figures | Economy Rate | Bowling Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | 5 | 10 | 3/31 | 5.70 | 20.7 | Impressive debut 3-fer, steady control |
| T20I | 1 | 3 | 3/33 | 8.25 | 11.0 | Debut as concussion substitute |
| Test | 2 | 4 | 4/117 | 4.51 | 50.75 | Struggled in longer format |
While the ODI and T20I numbers are promising, critics argue that Rana is still raw and lacks the match experience needed for high-pressure tournaments.o take three wickets on debut across all formats. That early brilliance added to the inclusion buzz—but does it justify a pick for a key tournament like the Asia Cup?
The Case Against Rana
Several cricket experts, including Kris Srikkanth, also raised concerns about Rana’s inclusion. The former selector bluntly asked:
“Where did Harshit Rana come from? His IPL season wasn’t remarkable, and he hasn’t proven himself consistently at the domestic level either. We could have gone for Washington Sundar, who offers all-round value.”
Indeed, Rana’s IPL 2024 numbers weren’t extraordinary. He picked up 19 wickets in 13 matches for Kolkata Knight Riders, but at times struggled with consistency and economy. While not poor, those figures did not stand out compared to Purple Cap winner Prasidh Krishna or proven pacer Siraj.
Srikkanth Adds Fuel to the Fire
Former selector Kris Srikkanth joined the chorus of criticism, calling out the BCCI’s decision-making:
“Where did Harshit Rana come from? He was so poor in the IPL… What message are you giving to Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj?”
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Srikkanth further questioned team balance, pointing out that someone like Washington Sundar, who can contribute with both bat and ball, might have been a better pick than players like Shivam Dube—or even Rana.
In contrast, captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the young pacer’s selection:
“He has the skill to perform for India in this format.”
Comparing With Other Options
To put things in perspective, here’s how Rana stacks up against two notable omissions:
| Player | Recent ODIs (Last 10) | Wickets | Economy | Best Figures | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harshit Rana | 5 | 10 | 5.70 | 3/31 | Swing with pace |
| Mohammed Siraj | 10 | 14 | 5.40 | 4/32 | Experience, new-ball threat |
| Prasidh Krishna | 10 | 16 | 5.85 | 5/31 | Strike bowler, death overs |
Clearly, Rana’s numbers don’t match the consistency of Siraj or Krishna. But his potential upside may have tipped the balance.
The debate over Harshit Rana’s inclusion highlights a bigger dilemma in Indian cricket—should selectors prioritize experience and consistency, or gamble on raw potential for the future?
For now, Rana has the backing of the management, but the Asia Cup 2025 will be the ultimate test. If he performs, the selectors’ bold call will be hailed as visionary. If he falters, critics like Aakash Chopra will feel vindicated.
