NEW DELHI: Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana continued his impressive form with another key strike in the series opener against South Africa in Ranchi, removing a dangerous looking Dewald Brevis who had been scoring freely against the home attack.
Harshit Rana’s fiery send off
Brevis entered with positive intent and looked in fine rhythm, taking on anything in his zone. His 37 off 28 balls kept South Africa in the contest while India searched for control.
That momentum ended when Harshit Rana pushed one full outside off. Brevis tried to elevate it over cover but sliced it instead, offering a simple catch to Ruturaj Gaikwad at sweeper cover. The dismissal halted a growing threat and gave India a timely breakthrough.
Known for his charged celebrations, Rana responded with a finger-wag send off towards Brevis. The gesture immediately circulated on social media, drawing a blend of criticism and appreciation from fans who have followed his expressive style closely since the IPL.
Here's the video:
Need a breakthrough? Call Harshit Rana! 📞
A fine catch by Ruturaj as the dangerman Dewald Brevis departs 👏#INDvSA 1st ODI, LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/BBkwein9oF pic.twitter.com/w4PAuCIgUR
Harshit Rana gets Brevis in his 2nd spell🔥🔥🔥
Gave him his famous send off🥶 pic.twitter.com/bZEU89msS7
This wicket added to Rana’s earlier double strike in the second over of the innings, where he dismissed Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock for ducks. Those early breakthroughs had already pushed South Africa onto the back foot, and the removal of Brevis deepened their trouble.
With South African batters struggling to stitch partnerships, India remained firmly on top in Ranchi. Harshit Rana’s incisive spell has been the standout factor so far, giving the hosts complete command of the opening ODI.