Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 8: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has once again defended his strong backing of young pacer Harshit Rana, dismissing claims of bias and stressing that the 22-year-old’s batting ability makes him a crucial long-term asset for the national team.

Gambhir and Harshit first worked together at Kolkata Knight Riders, where the franchise lifted the 2024 IPL title. Soon after Gambhir took charge of Team India, Harshit made rapid strides, debuting across formats and emerging as one of the few all-format options in the setup.

Following India’s 3-0 ODI series win over South Africa, Gambhir explained that Harshit is being groomed as a potential No. 8, with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind. “We are trying to develop someone like Harshit, who can bat at No. 8 and contribute with the bat. Come South Africa in two years’ time, we will need three proper seamers. If he continues to grow as a bowling all-rounder, it will be a massive boost,” he said.

Gambhir praised the performance of the young pace attack, including Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna, noting that all three have played fewer than 15 ODIs. He said the team management is keen to give them more opportunities due to their limited experience in the 50-over format.

“With Jasprit Bumrah returning and the way Arshdeep, Prasidh and Harshit performed in this series, it was incredible. If Harshit can develop at No. 8, it gives us the right balance,” he added.

Harshit boasts a strong first-class record as well, averaging 31.18 from 14 matches with one century and two fifties, strengthening his case as a dependable lower-order contributor.