India is playing the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, even though India has lost the series but the Men in Blue are now playing for their pride. When the playing XI was announced Kuldeep Yadav and Prasidh Krishna were added back but Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy were benched. But what gained huge criticism was the move to bench Arshdeep Singh and keep Harshit Rana in the squad.
Rana has been trolled time and then for his selection and place in all the three formats, the fans have shown no mercy and raised allegations of favouritism in the Indian team. Earlier, Gautam Gambhir also gave a strong reply to all the critics and trolls on Harshit Rana and called it absolutely “unfair” to target a 23-year old player.
Today the situation was no different, while Arshdeep Singh was benched Harshit Rana remained in the playing XI. But the tables turned when Harshit delivered a stunning performance and picked four wickets following which Australia’s innings were piled up at a score of 236.
What a start to his ODI career for Harshit Rana.
— Arshit Yadav (@imArshit) October 25, 2025
16 wickets in 8 innings with those stats at just 23 is incredible.
Big credit to the captain and coach for backing him.
Looking forward to more from this young talent.#AUSvIND #TeamIndia #HarshitRana pic.twitter.com/4PgtS2r4Ec
Also Read: IND vs AUS: India Extends ODI Toss Losing Streak To 18, Registers An Unwanted Record
Shubman Gill again lost the toss in the third ODI, and bowling first – India emerged as a strong force to put pressure on Australia’s batting lineup. The 23-year old Harshit Rana dismissed Alex Caret, Mitchell Owen, Cooper Connolly and Josh Hazlewood, emerging as the top bowler for India. Washington Sundar also picked two wickets and provided significant support in India’s bowling attack.
