Rana’s entry on the field gave India an extra bowling option, and the Kolkata Knight Riders pacer showcased his skills by taking key wickets.
Harshit Rana made his T20I debut for India in an unusual scenario, stepping in as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube during the 4th match against England in Pune. Rana quickly made his mark by catching England’s captain, Jos Buttler, in the 8th over. This dismissal created a tense moment as Buttler showed his frustration and had a discussion with the coaching staff in the England dugout.
Rana’s entry on the field gave India an extra bowling option, and the Kolkata Knight Riders pacer showcased his skills by taking key wickets. He struck in the 12th over by getting rid of Liam Livingstone and again in the 16th over when he sent Jacob Bethell back to the pavilion for just 6 runs. Rana’s strong performance continued as he claimed his third wicket by dismissing Jamie Overton for 19, finishing with impressive figures of 33/3.
The choice to swap an all-rounder for a pacer stirred up controversy online, with experts questioning the rationale behind the like-for-like substitution.
“How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!,” former England player Michael Vaughan posted on X.
How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #INDvsENG
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 31, 2025
Concussion rule
Rule 1.2.7.3 of the ICC playing conditions for concussion substitution states: “The ICC Match Referee should ordinarily approve a Concussion Replacement Request if the replacement is a like-for
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