Both Gautam Gambhir and Harshit Rana were in the spotlight ahead of Saturday’s final ODI in Sydney. Rana, the pacer, had taken a lot of criticism for his dismal performances in the opening two games, further denting his already poor record in international cricket. Meanwhile, Delhi pacer Gambhir, India’s head coach, had his own problems as he had not yet justified the faith reposed in him by the coach.
But a scolding by Gambhir prior to the match seemed to work its magic. Rana hit back with a winning performance, claiming four wickets in India’s convincing nine-wicket win against Australia. Following a disappointing Asia Cup sojourn, during which his inclusion in the Australian series was questioned, Rana had only managed two wickets in the first two ODIs, having conceded a combined total of 86 runs in 12 overs.
The growing pressure appeared to get on the nerves of Gambhir, who, defying the hectoring of the young pacer all along, eventually lost his cool and gave him an ultimatum before the Sydney game: “Perform or I’ll make you sit out.” The fast bowler confided in Rana’s childhood coach Sharvan before the match, disclosing the burden of the pressure and his near-helpless eagerness to shut out the outside criticism. Gambhir’s words, apparently, worked like a catalyst to get him on track.
“He called me and told me that he wanted to shut the outside noise with his performance. I just said, believe in yourself. I know some cricketers say he is close to Gambhir. But Gambhir knows how to identify talent, and he backs them. He has backed a lot of cricketers, and they have done wonders for their team. He, in fact, scolded Harshit badly. He told him directly, ‘perform kar, warna bahar bitha dunga.’ He sends a clear message to whoever you are,” said Sharvan.
Rana heaved a sigh of relief on Saturday when he discovered his rhythm at the SCG, bowling with pace and bounce to record his first-ever four-wicket haul in ODIs, as India bowled Australia out for 236 runs.
