(KKR X)
KKR’s young pacer, Harshit Rana, shared insights into his two-year journey with former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun in the IPL. Rana praised Arun’s attentive nature, emphasizing his knack for listening to players’ thoughts and concerns. According to the uncapped Indian talent, Arun prioritizes instilling a winning mindset rather than delving into technicalities, offering invaluable mental support to the team. Rana credited this approach for contributing to KKR’s success.
I loved working with Bharat Arun sir: Harshit Rana
Rana added that Arun consistently emphasizes the need to convert skills into reliable performances, particularly during tense moments in key matches, which ultimately enhances players’ chances of being selected for the national team. The victorious IPL 2024 player acknowledged Arun’s substantial role in his cricketing development, attributing not only improvements in his bowling technique but also the mindset essential for excelling in the IPL, to the KKR coach.
Harshit Rana was quoted as saying by the Indian Express: “I loved working with Bharat sir. He is an excellent listener. If I am trying to say something, he will always listen. Tactically, he doesn’t speak much, but he gives you that mental boost. He told me that I am playing in the IPL because I have the required skill set. But just having skills will not help me play for India. I must start delivering in the difficult overs for my team, and that would make me a better bowler than the rest.”
Rana also identifies himself as a versatile player, citing his century in the Duleep Trophy as evidence of his batting prowess. Despite not having the chance to showcase his batting skills in IPL 2024 due to the impact player rule, he expressed a strong desire to unleash his power hitting abilities. Now, fueled by the ambition to represent India at the international level, Rana aims to make a significant impact in the IPL as a stepping stone towards fulfilling his dream.
Bharat Arun expresses confidence in Harshit Rana’s potential for a prolonged career representing India.
Harshit played a crucial role in KKR’s victory in IPL 2024, stepping up with remarkable displays during Mitchell Starc’s challenging phase, culminating the season with an impressive tally of 19 wickets in 13 matches. Recently, Arun expressed his confidence in Harshit’s long-term potential to represent India, alongside praising Mayank Yadav’s talent. The KKR coach noted that the IPL showcased a pool of fast bowlers, around 8 to 10, capable of serving India for an extended period, emphasizing the importance of nurturing their talent effectively.
Arun stressed that if these talented bowlers can be groomed, India can have a good crop of fast bowlers. He added, “If you look at Umran Malik, somebody who bowls fast, Mayank Yadav is also an exceptional talent.”
