4th T20I: Harshit Rana shines as concussion substitute versus England
What's the story
Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana made his T20I debut in the ongoing series against England.
He was called up as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, who sustained a head injury in the final over of India's innings.
This rare debut puts Rana in the company of a unique set of cricketers who have made their first international appearance under similar circumstances.
Notably, Rana impressed and picked three crucial wickets for Team India, who won by 15 runs.
Debut impact
Rana's impressive debut performance
Rana, who also represents Kolkata Knight Riders, made a mark in his debut match. He sent England's Liam Livingstone back with just his second delivery, showcasing his potential on the international stage.
As per Cricbuzz, this promising start is similar to the performances of other players who have debuted as concussion substitutes: Brian Mudzinganyama (Test, Zimbabwe), Neil Rock (ODI, Ireland), Matt Parkinson (Test, England), Kamran Ghulam (ODI, Pakistan) and Bahir Shah (Test, Afghanistan).
Information
Rana was India's game changer in Pune T20I
Rana was the game changer for India on debut. After getting Livingstone in the 12th over, he got the crucial scalps of Jacob Bethell and the dangerous Jamie Overton. He bowled an excellent 19th over, conceding just six runs (1 wicket). He finished with 3/33 from 4 overs.
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Decoding his T20 stats
Making his 26th appearance in T20s, Rana has raced to 31 scalps at a sensational 22.41. His economy is 8.91, as per ESPNcricinfo. Rana now owns 7 wickets in the last 4 overs in T20s at 24.28.
Words
'It is still a dream debut for me'
After the match, Rana said to the broadcasters, "It is still a dream debut for me. When Dube came back, after two overs I was informed I will be the concussion substitute."
Rana was eagerly waiting for an opportunity.
"It is not just for this series, I have been waiting for an opportunity for a long time and I wanted to prove I belong here. I have bowled well in the IPL and was just following the same here."