**‘Amateurish’: Ashwin Highlights Flaws in Harshit Rana’s Spell Against Sri Lanka**
*By Parth Dhall | Sep 27, 2025, 03:20 PM*
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has pointed out significant flaws in pacer Harshit Rana’s bowling performance during India’s 2025 Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka. The high-stakes match was held at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday.
### Harshit Rana’s Performance Under the Spotlight
This was only Harshit Rana’s second match in the tournament, and he struggled to make a strong impact. The Delhi pacer conceded a costly 54 runs in his four overs, managing to take just one wicket. Despite his expensive spell, India clinched the win in a thrilling Super Over finish.
Harshit found it challenging to adjust to Dubai’s conditions. As Ashwin noted in his post-match analysis, Rana was unable to settle into his rhythm early on and leaked runs heavily during his initial three overs. However, he did manage to bounce back somewhat in the final over by dismissing Sri Lankan batsman Pathum Nissanka, who had been in brilliant form scoring 107 runs off just 58 balls.
### Ashwin’s Candid Critique
Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat,’ Ashwin was forthright in his assessment of Harshit Rana’s display. “I want to speak about Harshit Rana. Playing just a few matches, then sitting out others, can really affect confidence and rhythm,” he explained.
Ashwin didn’t hold back, describing some of Harshit’s mistakes as “really amateurish.” He urged the young pacer to take this experience as a learning opportunity going forward.
### Predictability in Bowling Style
A specific concern raised by Ashwin was Harshit’s bowling pattern. The seasoned spinner criticized the predictability in his deliveries: “One fast, one slow, one fast, one slow. That’s really amateurish cricket.”
This repetitive approach made it easier for batsmen to anticipate and capitalize on his bowling.
### Context and Player Background
Harshit Rana was included in the playing XI in place of Shivam Dube for the Sri Lanka game. Prior to this match, Harshit had featured only in the Oman game, which was also a dead rubber for Team India.
To date, Harshit has represented India in two Test matches, five One Day Internationals (ODIs), and three T20 Internationals (T20Is). While he has shown potential, he is yet to cement his place or consistently deliver impact performances across formats.
Overall, Harshit has picked up 48 T20, 32 List A, and 50 First-Class wickets, indicating a promising domestic record. However, the transition to top-level international cricket remains a work in progress.
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*India now looks ahead to upcoming challenges with Harshit Rana aiming to refine his skills and address the concerns raised by senior players like Ashwin.*
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