Another major uproar has occurred in the cricket world today. The BCCI has issued a statement fully supporting coach Gautam Gambhir’s firm stance.
We are talking about Harshit Rana, the 23-year-old fast bowler who recently made his debut in the Australia Test series.
However, some former players attempted to defame him by trolling him, and Gambhir became enraged.
All this is happening ahead of the Australia tour, where Harshit has been included in all three formats.
What is the whole matter?
The attack on Harshit Rana began with former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and former Chairman of Selection Kris Srikkanth.
Srikkanth called Harshit an overacter on the field, saying that he creates more drama than he bowls.
He even said that Harshit was selected only because he is Gambhir’s favorite. Ashwin even questioned the selection process, saying he would like to attend the selection meeting to understand why Harshit was selected to bat lower down the order.
But he also expressed doubts about Harshit’s potential. People on social media even started calling Harshit Gambhir’s “uncle.” Hearing this, Gambhir erupted in anger.
He bluntly stated, “Target people based on their performance, and that’s what the selectors are there for.”
Gambhir’s anger and BCCI’s support
Now comes the twist. Gambhir reprimanded former cricketers, saying such comments tarnish the image of players. The BCCI didn’t hesitate and sided with them.
Vice President Rajiv Shukla told ANI, “Gautam Gambhir is right. If someone has any complaints about the players, then it should be done responsibly.
This will bring the players’ morale down. It is the team’s job to select players. So, before you say anything about the players, you should think about how much responsibility you should take.”
The BCCI says that criticism should be done responsibly, otherwise the players’ morale will be affected.
Harshit recently went to Gambhir’s house for dinner before the West Indies Test, but did not play in the playing XI. Nevertheless, he will play an important role on the Australia tour.
With Jasprit Bumrah out of ODIs, Harshit could lead the pace attack alongside Mohammed Siraj. Arshdeep Singh will partner Bumrah in T20Is, as Hardik Pandya is not coming on the tour.
Harshit’s future is bright, but controversy continues
This controversy is dividing cricket fans. On one hand, Gambhir and the BCCI are talking about protecting young talent, while on the other hand, veterans like Ashwin and Srikkanth are questioning the selection process.
Harshit has played two Tests so far and also won the Champions Trophy.
If the Australian pitches suit pacers, this is a golden opportunity for him. This stance by the BCCI sends a clear message that interference in team management decisions will not be tolerated.
