• Sportzyverse
• IPL 2024
• 05/29/2024
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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fast bowler Harshit Rana is setting his sights on a call-up to the Indian national team after a remarkable season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Rana emerged as one of the pivotal figures in KKR’s triumphant campaign, showcasing his talent and determination on the big stage. The young bowler captured 19 wickets in just 13 matches, primarily excelling in the back end of the innings. His aggressive and passionate style of play earned him attention, though it also led to a one-match ban due to his celebratory antics.

Key Performances and Bowling Prowess

Rana’s performances this season were characterised by his effective use of off-cutters and his ability to deliver under pressure. He played a crucial role in KKR’s opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), setting the tone for the team’s successful campaign. In the final against a strong opposition, Rana’s strategic bowling was again on display as he dismissed the in-form Nitish Kumar Reddy with a mix of slower deliveries and a sharp 146 KMPH ball that caught the batsman’s edge.

Rana attributes a significant part of his success to the guidance of KKR’s bowling coach, Bharat Arun. Reflecting on the season, Rana praised Arun for his impactful mentorship, which focused more on the mental aspects of the game rather than just technical adjustments.

“I loved working with Bharat sir. He is an excellent listener. If I am trying to say something, he will always listen. Tactically he doesn’t speak much but he gives you that mental boost. He told me that I am playing in the IPL because I have the required skill set. But just having skills will not help me play for India. I must start delivering in the difficult overs for my team and that would make me a better bowler than the rest,” Rana explained in an interview.

Arun’s advice helped Rana hone his signature delivery, the off-cutter, making him a lethal weapon in KKR’s bowling arsenal, especially during the death overs.

also read  IPL 2024 Prize Money: KKR Clinches Massive 20 Crores with IPL Third Title, SRH Get 12.5 Cr

The Flying Kiss Celebration

Rana’s season was also marked by a memorable celebration that led to a brief controversy. After taking a wicket, his “flying kiss” celebration led to a one-match suspension. However, this incident had a silver lining: It brought a special interaction with KKR’s co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

“After I got banned for one match, I was very sad and then Shah Rukh sir came to me and said ‘Tu tension mat le ye waali celebration Trophy ke saath karenge (We will celebrate the IPL with a flying kiss). He promised me and ensured we did that with the trophy and our team,” Rana shared.

Rana’s aspirations go beyond his success in the IPL. With the confidence gained from a standout season and the guidance from mentors like Bharat Arun, Rana is now focused on making a mark on the international stage. His ability to handle pressure and deliver in crucial moments could make him a valuable asset for the Indian cricket team.

As the cricketing world turns its attention to upcoming international fixtures, Harshit Rana’s name is one to watch. His journey from a promising IPL performer to a potential Indian team player is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and the invaluable support system around him. Whether he gets the nod from the national selectors remains to be seen, but Rana’s determination and skill set make him a strong contender for future opportunities with Team India.