Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has publicly defended young fast bowler Harshit Rana in light of recent criticism. Rana has faced backlash from former players and fans alike, questioning his role in the Indian cricket team.
Aakash Chopra Supports Harshit Rana Amid Criticism
Chopra expressed his support for Rana, asserting that the criticism directed at the bowler is unwarranted. He asked critics to reconsider their stance, highlighting the limited number of fast bowlers currently available for selection in the Indian squad.
Understanding the Fast Bowling Landscape
Chopra pointed out that the pool of fast bowlers in India is not extensive. Notable names, such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh, have established themselves as all-format players. However, Chopra emphasized that there are not a dozen bowlers ready to step in.
- Jasprit Bumrah – All Formats
- Mohammed Siraj – All Formats
- Arshdeep Singh – All Formats
- Prasidh Krishna – All Formats
Chopra noted that options like Mohammad Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are currently unavailable, further tightening the bowling selection. He also mentioned other fast bowlers, including Umran Malik, Khaleel Ahmed, and Deepak Chahar, among others, indicating a need for patience and support for Rana’s development.
The Importance of Backing Young Talent
According to Chopra, part of the reason for supporting Rana stems from his potential. Coaches and selectors often back players they believe in based on their experiences. This approach can lead to significant success, as seen with legendary players like Sourav Ganguly and Dhoni, who have historically endorsed young talents.
In conclusion, Aakash Chopra believes that the team and fans should rally behind Harshit Rana. He argued that the young bowler is stepping up to the challenge and deserves the opportunity to prove himself on the field.
