Maiden ODI half-century lights up Indore crowd
India’s chase in the third ODI against New Zealand at the Holkar Cricket Stadium witnessed a defining moment when Harshit Rana smashed his maiden ODI fifty under pressure. The right-hander brought up the milestone in style, launching a short ball from Zakary Foulkes over long-on for a six, sending the Indore crowd into raptures.
Rana’s fifty came off 43 balls and included four fours and four sixes, a knock that stood out not just for its timing but for the context surrounding his place in the Indian setup.
Battling criticism over selection and role
Rana has been under intense scrutiny over the past year, with questions raised about his selection across formats and allegations of preference linked to head coach Gautam Gambhir. Critics have often pointed at his role in the side, his batting ability, and whether he justifies a place in India’s plans.
However, performances like this half-century have strengthened Rana’s case as a genuine all-round contributor, especially in the ODI format where he has delivered consistently since his debut.
Learning to handle failure from early struggles
Speaking recently, Rana reflected on how years of rejection shaped his mindset. He recalled failing repeatedly in trials during his formative years in Delhi and breaking down in front of his father after setbacks. Those experiences, he said, taught him how to accept failure with dignity and resilience.
Rana noted that the toughest phase of his career helped him prepare for the criticism that now follows him at the international level, adding that he feels mentally stronger and better equipped to handle pressure situations.
ODI numbers underline Rana’s growing impact
Since making his ODI debut in February last year, Rana has played 13 matches and picked up 23 wickets, establishing himself as a reliable option for India. His consistent ODI performances have also helped him break into the T20I setup, and he has been selected in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026.
This latest innings further highlighted his ability to contribute beyond bowling, offering India depth in the lower-middle order.
Dismissal follows milestone but message delivered
Ironically, Rana was dismissed later in the same over after reaching his fifty, caught by Henry Nicholls at long-on off Foulkes for 52. Despite the dismissal, the statement had already been made.
In a match where India were chasing 337, Rana’s knock stood as a reminder that beyond debates and criticism, performances on the field remain the strongest response.