India's bowling attack came under serious scrutiny after their five-wicket loss to England in the first Test at Headingley.
While Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj bowled some good lengths throughout the Test, the rest of the bowling unit failed to hold their ground.
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Both Prasidh Krishna and Ravindra Jadeja were expensive. As the team looks to bounce back in the remaining four Tests, head coach Gautam Gambhir has hinted at a potential addition to the squad: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Harshit Rana.
What did Gautam Gambhir say about Harshit Rana's inclusion?
Speaking after the Leeds Test, Gambhir revealed that Rana had been in consideration for the series but was held back due to fitness concerns.
"Harshit Rana, I will discuss with chairman of selectors. He was held back because of some niggles... everything is fine. I will discuss, and we will then take that call."
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Rana was one of the breakout performers in IPL 2024. He contributed to KKR’s title-winning campaign under Gambhir's mentorship.
There has been a growing buzz about when he would get his Test debut. With India's bowling under pressure, especially after England chased down 371 with relative ease, Rana's inclusion could provide a much-needed spark and variation to the attack.
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What next for India’s bowling unit?
India are likely to rotate bowlers through the rest of the series. Bumrah has been cleared to play only two more Tests and the form of Krishna remains a concern.
Rana's return could offer fresh legs and a new dimension to the attack as India looks to level the series when they make the trip to Birmingham for the second Test on July 2.