**‘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 several flaws in pacer Harshit Rana’s bowling during India’s 2025 Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka. The match, played at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday, saw Harshit struggle with his bowling rhythm as he conceded 54 runs in four overs, taking just one wicket. Despite his performance, India secured a thrilling win through a Super Over.
### Harshit Rana’s Performance Analysis
In only his second match of the tournament, Harshit found it difficult to adapt to the Dubai conditions. The Delhi pacer leaked runs heavily in his first three overs, failing to find his usual rhythm. However, he made a notable comeback in his final over by dismissing Sri Lanka’s explosive batsman Pathum Nissanka, who had scored a quickfire 107 off 58 balls.
### Ashwin’s Candid Criticism
Speaking on his YouTube channel *Ash Ki Baat*, Ashwin did not hold back while analyzing Harshit’s bowling. He emphasized the importance of consistent game time, stating, “Playing just a few matches, then sitting out others, can really affect confidence and rhythm.” Ashwin described some of Harshit’s mistakes as “really amateurish” and urged the young pacer to learn from these experiences.
### Bowling Style Under the Scanner
Ashwin also critiqued Harshit’s bowling approach, pointing out its predictability. “One fast, one slow, one fast, one slow. That’s really amateurish cricket,” Ashwin commented, highlighting the need for variation and smarter tactics in his spells.
### Team Selection and Stats
Harshit Rana was included in the playing XI in place of Shivam Dube for the Sri Lanka match. Previously, he had featured against Oman in a dead rubber game during the same tournament.
To date, Harshit has represented India in two Test matches, five ODIs, and three T20Is but is yet to firmly establish himself across formats. Overall, his domestic career boasts 48 T20, 32 List A, and 50 First-Class wickets.
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Harshit’s performance and Ashwin’s frank critique underscore the challenges young bowlers face in international cricket, especially when dealing with inconsistent opportunities and the pressure of big tournaments like the Asia Cup. It remains to be seen how Harshit adapts and grows from this experience moving forward.
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