Is Harshit Rana getting preferential treatment from Gautam Gambhir? Pacer breaks silence on claims | Cricket News

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Harshit Rana during the first ODI cricket match of a series between India and South Africa, at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi, Jharkhand. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Harshit Rana, who joined the Indian set-up across all formats during Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as head coach, said he was not affected by claims that he was getting preferential treatment. The fast bowler said he is avoiding outside conversations and only focusing on his work on the field, as India prepares for their next ODI in Raipur.Harshit Rana said he does not pay attention to claims that he is being favored by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir, adding that such comments affect performances and he prefers to stay focused on his cricket.

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Rana, 23, made his India debut in all formats during Gambhir’s stint, starting in the Perth Test during last year’s tour of Australia. His results have been mixed so far, but Gambhir has continued to back him.“If I start listening to all these things, put them in my head and go to the field, I won’t be able to play cricket,” Rana said when asked about the criticism, especially that emanating from social media. “I try to avoid as much as possible. I just pay attention to what I have to do on the field. I don’t care what happens outside or what anyone says about me. I just focus on my hard work and what I am going to do on the field,” he said ahead of India’s practice session at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur.Rana took 3/65 in the first ODI in Ranchi, taking two early wickets before losing control slightly later in South Africa’s chase.He said he was working with bowling coach Morne Morkel and Arshdeep Singh to improve his new-ball skills.“With the new ball, I practice a lot with Morne (Morkel) and I continue to talk a lot with Arshdeep. I think Arshdeep has a lot of experience and he continues to help and guide me during training,” Rana said.Regarding the rule of one ball after the 34th, Rana said the team checks which of the two balls has aged more before choosing.“You know bowlers don’t get much help in today’s cricket, so this rule is very useful for us and we always have in mind to see which ball is getting old. And everyone is involved in choosing that ball,” he said.Rana also said that the presence of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has supported his growth.“It’s a big deal for me and obviously for the whole team, because if such experienced players stay with you on the pitch and in the dressing room, then the team environment is very good.”