Ravichandran Ashwin questions selectors after Harshit Rana's India call-up: 'Would love to be in that selection meeting'

Former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin did not lag behind in sharing his opinion on the selection of KKR bowler Harshit Rana in the ODI squad against Australia. Harshit has somehow made it into the squads of all three formats, despite limited experience in playing XI. Fans are shocked at Harshit Rana’s selection, while some of them suggested that it is Harshit’s KKR connection with the coach that is getting him placed in the squads.

“Questionable” but not talentless: Ravichandran Ashwin says

Ravichandran Ashwin has candidly challenged the logic of Harshit Rana being selected in India's squad for the tour of Australia. On his YouTube channel, the veteran off-spinner stated, "Even I don't know why he is picked from KKR. Ajit Agarkar, BCCI's chief selector, has not told us and this is us just speculating."

Ashwin suggested that Rana’s potential ability with the bat might have influenced the selectors. “Why they are selecting him, I am not sure. I would love to be in the selection meeting to know the reason behind his inclusion,” Ashwin said. “The reason I see is that in Australia, we need a fast bowler who can bat — maybe they believe he can be a handy No. 8. But I am not sure about his batting ability. He bowled one brilliant delivery in the IPL final two years back, but he’s been known mainly for that one ball.”

Although he has his reservations, Ashwin was quick to clarify that he does not dispute Rana's ability as a bowler. "He certainly possesses the ability with the ball. I wouldn't accept it if someone said he lacked the ability," Ashwin expressed. He elaborated that such selections are sometimes based on selectors observing the player closely and taking a chance on someone they trust the potential of. Referring to Ravindra Jadeja's and his own play early in their careers, Ashwin noted that public opinion often shifts based on performance.

Concluding his thoughts, Ashwin admitted that Rana’s selection remains “very questionable” at the moment but acknowledged the pacer’s “X-factor.” He noted that while Rana’s selection may seem debatable now, only time and performance on the field will reveal whether the selectors’ gamble pays off.