Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that Kolkata Knight Riders might receive unexpected good news from the ongoing T20I series between India and Bangladesh.
He predicts that fast bowler Harshit Rana is unlikely to make his debut in the second T20I on October 9 in Delhi. This could benefit KKR, as Rana staying uncapped helps their retention strategy for the next IPL auction.
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What are Harshit Rana's chances in the series?
Harshit Rana was not selected for India's playing XI in the first T20I against Bangladesh on October 6, where India won convincingly. The team preferred to go with just two specialist pacers - Arshdeep Singh and Mayank Yadav - along with all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who also offer seam-bowling options. This selection choice suggests that Rana might not feature in the second T20I as well.
"Kolkata guys, be happy, Harshit Rana won't play. He won't get his debut. So keep your fingers crossed for one more game. If he doesn't get his debut, an uncapped player will be ready for you," said Aakash Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.
Despite being a part of India’s squads for previous series against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, Rana has yet to make his international debut. According to Chopra, Rana deserves an opportunity to play, especially after spending time in the squad. However, it seems that he might have to wait a little longer for his debut.
"Ideally, you think that if two players got their debuts, so should the third. If you see from that viewpoint, Harshit Rana was ahead in the pecking order. He was part of the Indian squad against Zimbabwe and then Sri Lanka as well. So if you are a part of the 15 for a slightly longer time, you hope that you only will be selected when the next chance comes," Chopra added.
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Why is Harshit Rana staying uncapped good news for KKR?
Harshit Rana's remaining uncapped could be beneficial for KKR in the IPL auctions. In IPL, the retention price for an uncapped player (4 crores) is lower compared to a capped player.
If Rana stays uncapped, KKR can retain him for a more affordable price. His potential debut for India would likely increase his market value, forcing KKR to spend more to keep him in the squad.
KKR faces a challenge in the upcoming IPL auction if Harshit Rana makes his India debut. Retaining Rana at a higher price could affect their ability to build a balanced squad, as IPL auctions often involve tight financial limits.
If his debut raises his market value, KKR might have to release other players to make room for Rana's increased retention cost.
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