Harshit Rana created history by becoming the first Indian cricketer to make his T20I debut as a concussion substitute. He replaced the injured Shivam Dube during the fourth T20I against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.
A Memorable Debut Under Unusual Circumstances
Rana, who was not originally named in India’s playing XI, made an immediate impact, picking up three wickets for 33 runs in his four-over spell. His impressive bowling helped India secure a 15-run victory and clinch the series 3-1.
Dube’s Injury Leads to Substitution
Playing his first match of the series in place of Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube delivered a brilliant knock of 53 off 34 balls, powering India to 181/9 in 20 overs. However, he suffered multiple blows from England pacer Jofra Archer before a Jamie Overton bouncer struck him on the helmet in the final over. Dube was run out on the last ball of the innings and did not return to field, with India’s medical team assessing him. Ramandeep Singh initially fielded as a substitute for the first six overs.
Impact of Harshit Rana on the Match
Rana officially joined the playing XI after the powerplay, with the BCCI confirming: “Harshit Rana is the concussion substitute for Shivam Dube.” However, he had already made an impact by taking a sharp catch off Ravi Bishnoi’s bowling to dismiss England captain Jos Buttler.
The young pacer struck in his very first over, removing Liam Livingstone as the batter edged behind to Sanju Samson. He later dismissed Jacob Bethell in the 16th over before delivering a crucial 19th over when England needed 25 runs to win. Rana conceded just six runs and dismissed Jamie Overton off the final ball, sealing India’s victory.
Rana had previously made his Test debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, playing the first two matches. His impactful T20I debut as a concussion substitute adds another milestone to his growing international career.
