How Harshit Rana banks on old ball: Parthiv Patel explains
What's the story
Former Indian wicketkeeper, Parthiv Patel, has emphasized the unique bowling style of Harshit Rana.
As observed lately, Parthiv highlighted how Rana becomes more effective with an old ball than a new one.
He made this observation after India's 142-run victory over England at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday, where Rana put up an exceptional performance.
India routed England 3-0 in the three-ODI series.
Match analysis
Rana's performance in 3rd ODI against England
In the Ahmedabad ODI, Rana was one of India's main bowlers with brilliant figures of 5-1-31-2.
However, his performance was drastically different in his first and second spells.
He gave away 22 runs in two overs initially but made a strong comeback in his second spell by conceding just nine runs from three overs.
He also took the crucial wickets of Harry Brook and England skipper Jos Buttler.
Expert opinion
Insights on Rana's bowling style
Patel elaborated that Rana's unique 'hit-the-deck' bowling style makes him more effective with an old ball.
"We have seen that when he starts with the new ball, he tends to go for runs," Patel told broadcasters after the match.
He added, "He is a different kind of bowler when it comes to the new ball—he's not a swing bowler but a hit-the-deck bowler. That's exactly why he takes wickets with the older ball."
Career progression
Rana's debut and subsequent performances
Rana made his debut in the 1st ODI against England in Nagpur. Patel observed if Rana struggles early on, Hardik Pandya often steps in.
"This is how India has been using him: if he bowls a couple of good overs, he continues; if not, Hardik steps in," Patel said.
Despite an economy of 10.4 without any wickets in his opening spell, Rana showed resilience by making a comeback with six wickets with an economy of 5.2 using the older ball.
Replacement announcement
Rana replaces Bumrah for Champions Trophy
Rana has been picked as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy with a back injury.
"He should be a happy man, and India is clearly looking for a replacement for Bumrah. That won't be easy, but at some point in this series, he has stepped up," Patel said about this development.
In the three ODIs against England, Rana was the most successful pacer (six wickets with an economy of 6.95).