IND vs AUS: India pacer Harshit Rana lost 17 kgs before BGT, Father stood with him during every setback

As India look to restore their Test dominance against Australia next month, Delhi youngster Harshit Rana will be hoping to showcase his skills.

Rana, the 22-year-old pacer from Delhi, has been picked in the Test squad for India after excellent outing in domestic cricket.

Rana had an outstanding IPL 2024 campaign with Kolkata Knight Riders, where he caught the eye of then KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir, now the head coach of the Indian team. Rana's performance in the Duleep Trophy further cemented his prospects, where he took eight wickets for India D.

But Harshit's journey to the national team has been anything but straightforward. Often being plagued with injuries and lack of fitness, the Delhi boy took upon a stern path to resurrect his career. His significant weight loss of 17 kilograms is a testament to his dedication and hard work, overcoming obstacles to secure his place in the team.

And ahead of Harshit's Australia adventure, the player and his father opened up on the road to emergence. Harshit's father Pradeep, who once conceded his son's India future, depicted the sacrifice and dedication they both exhibited in Harshit's journey.

"First it was back, then it was groin, then calf and a niggle in the shoulder. Every part of his body was injured. During that time, I had taken him to many hospitals just to understand why he was breaking down. I even took him to an Ayurveda facility in Najafgarh. Whatever knowledge I gained from watching videos, and reading news items, I tried everything," Harshit's father Pradeep told The Indian Express.

The player credited his father for his immense support. It was a dad who stood beside his young son in every step to overcome the obstacles.

"During my teenage years, I was getting injured too often and my father stood like a rock behind me. He told me that it was okay even if I don't become a professional cricketer. Whatever I am today, it is because of my father," Harshit said.

"My father's dream is to watch me play in England. But I always wanted to play against Australia because I am competitive in nature and Australia also plays the same brand of cricket. I am really looking forward to this tour," the India player added.

Harshit Rana has continued his strong form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match as well. He picked up 5 wickets with the ball and scored a half-century with the bat. In Australia, if India require a pacer who has batting potential, and Harshit Rana fits the bill perfectly.