Aakash Chopra, the former cricketer, has raised eyebrows over Harshit Rana’s inclusion in India’s Asia Cup squad, criticizing the young bowler’s underwhelming performances in IPL 2025. Rana, who made his T20I debut earlier this year as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, was praised for his debut performance, taking 3 wickets for 33 runs in India’s victory over England. However, Chopra highlighted that Rana’s IPL 2025 campaign was far from spectacular.
Disappointing IPL 2025 Numbers
In IPL 2025, Rana took 15 wickets in 13 games for Kolkata Knight Riders, but his average of 29.86 and an economy rate of 10.18 raised concerns. “Harshit Rana’s case is interesting, but we need to look at his overall performance. He came in as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, took three wickets, and was named Player of the Match, which was brilliant, but what about the rest of his performances?” Chopra said in a recent video on his YouTube channel.
Chopra Questions the Selection
Chopra criticized Rana’s IPL season, describing it as “extremely ordinary,” and noted that his numbers were not strong enough to justify his selection for the Asia Cup. “His performances haven’t been great, and his numbers aren’t flattering. It doesn’t seem like his stats are good enough to deserve a spot in the team,” Chopra added.
Alternative Fast-Bowling Picks Suggested
Chopra further suggested that players like Mohammed Siraj or Prasidh Krishna might have been better options for India’s fast-bowling department, which already includes Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Hardik Pandya. “Rana might not even get a chance to play regularly,” Chopra pointed out. “If he doesn’t play, his inclusion won’t make much difference. Looking at recent form, Prasidh Krishna or Mohammed Siraj should have been considered for the spot.”
Despite his concerns, Chopra emphasized that the team has opted for Harshit Rana, questioning the rationale behind the decision.
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