Asia Cup 2025: ‘Where did Harshit Rana come from?’ – Ex-selector slams BCCI’s selection logic

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has criticized the selection of pacer Harshit Rana in India’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, pointing to his underwhelming performances in IPL 2025. Srikkanth argued that Harshit did not deserve a spot in the squad, especially at the expense of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, who had excelled in the IPL, with the latter winning the Purple Cap as well.

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav defended the selection, stating that Harshit had performed well in his recent outings for India. Despite this, Srikkanth remained vocal in his disapproval of the selectors’ decision to pick the right-arm pacer, taking a direct jibe at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and current chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

“I think he is doing really well in the IPL and in the game which he has played for India. I remember that concussion replacement game in Pune. I also remember he got a Man of the Match in the last T20I he played for India. So, we back his skill. We know he has got that skill to deliver for India in this format,” Suryakumar had said in the press conference at the time of squad announcement.

“Where did Harshit Rana come from? He was so poor in the IPL. He is being managed. He had an economy rate of 10 in the IPL. What message are you giving to Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj?” Srikkanth questioned on his YouTube channel ‘Cheeky Cheeka’.

Washington would be ideal, not Dube: Srikkanth

Srikkanth also expressed concerns about the team balance, suggesting that Washington Sundar should have been included instead of Shivam Dube, who scored 357 runs in 14 innings for CSK in IPL 2025. Washington was recently seen in action during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, where he made valuable contributions across all departments.

“They will make Tilak Varma the sixth bowler. Is Abhishek Sharma going to be your sixth bowler or Shivam Dube? He hardly bowled in the IPL. This is an adjustment selection. If you needed someone who can bat and bowl at No. 8, Washington Sundar would have been ideal. Shivam Dube at No. 8 does not make any sense,” Srikkanth added.

The 1983 World Cup-winner has been quite vocal about his selection strategies since he gave up the position he once himself held. The Madras-born (now Chennai) and many others have had the same concern, with a few on social media claiming that Rana’s place is more secure than even the captain or vice-captain of the Indian team at the moment.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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