Gautam Gambhir gave a strong reply to those who trolled Harshit Rana after his selection for India’s white-ball tour of Australia. Rana’s name in the squad has created a big debate in the cricket world.
Former India selector Kris Srikkanth had criticised the Indian team management on his YouTube channel. He said that Rana looked like the “only one permanent member” in the team. His comments started a wave of trolling on social media.
After India’s 2-0 series win against the West Indies on Tuesday, October 14, head coach Gambhir spoke at a press conference in Delhi. It was also his birthday. The 44-year-old defended Rana without naming anyone directly.
Gautam Gambhir Hits Back at Trolls Over Harshit Rana’s Selection
“It’s a little shameful that you are targeting a 23 year old personally – Harshit’s father is not an ex chairman. It is not fair that you target an individual. Social media trolling is just not right & imagine the mindset. Anyone’s kid will play cricket – Every one has us moral responsibility to make sure india cricket does well,” Gambhir said.
He also sent a clear message to critics. “Don’t say anything to run your YouTube channel – if you want, then target me, I can handle it but leave that Kid alone & it’s same for all the young stars,” he added.
Many fans linked Harshit Rana’s selection to his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) connection with Gambhir. The young pacer was part of the KKR team that won the IPL 2024 under Gambhir’s mentorship.
Rana made his international debut in November 2024. He has played two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is so far. He has taken four wickets in Tests, 10 in ODIs, and five in T20Is. But his economy rate has raised some concerns.
India will start their tour of Australia with a three-match ODI series from October 19 in Perth. This will be followed by a five-match T20I series starting October 29.
