‘Difficult to wait for my debut, but words of Gauti bhai, parents helped’: Rana

India pacer Harshit Rana celebrates the wicket of Australia’s Mitchell Starc. Pic/Getty Images

Harshit Rana was in a difficult mind-space before making his India debut at Perth against Australia, but survived that unsure phase after head coach Gautam Gambhir and his parents advised him to remain patient and be mentally prepared for the cherished moment.

Rana didn't disappoint Gambhir either as the young pacer grabbed three wickets, supporting skipper Jasprit Bumrah to bundle out Australia for 104 in their first innings. "It was difficult for me to wait [for my debut], but Gauti bhai was saying to keep my patience and do well whenever my chance comes. He always gives confidence. He was telling me to keep everything aside and think that you are representing the whole country," Rana said during his post-day press meet on Saturday.

"I keep talking to my dad and mom before and after every match. So, they were telling me to keep your patience and God will fulfill my dreams."

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However, all of that edginess vanished once he castled Aussie left-hander Travis Head with a peach of a delivery. Rana said it was the result of his pre-tour hard work and sticking to the plans by the management.

"We were talking about setting up the [Aussie] batsmen to dismiss them, and our plan was to attack the stumps. I was able to hit the right length and got wicket [Head]," he added.

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