In a recent update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), fast bowler Harshit Rana was unavailable for selection in the third T20I against Bangladesh due to a viral infection. Despite not yet making his international debut, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to benefit from Rana’s current status as they can retain him for the 2025 IPL season at a relatively low cost of Rs 4 crore ahead of the mega auction.
Rana, who has shown immense potential as a fast bowler, missed the opportunity to play in the series-deciding T20I in Hyderabad. In a statement issued before the match, the BCCI clarified. “Mr. Harshit Rana was unavailable for selection for the third T20I due to a viral infection and did not travel with the team to the stadium.”
KKR Set to Retain Uncapped Harshit Rana at Affordable Price for IPL 2025
Although Rana’s absence was unfortunate, it may work in KKR’s favor. With no international cap to his name yet, the franchise can secure his services at an affordable price. Avoiding a potential bidding war in the upcoming auction. Rana has been a key player for KKR. And his impressive domestic performances and past IPL contributions make him a valuable asset for the team.
Rana played a crucial role in KKR’s journey to their third IPL title, taking 19 wickets in 13 matches. His retention at Rs 4 crore could be a strategic move, allowing KKR to allocate funds to other key areas of their squad while still keeping a talented player like Rana.
There were initial hopes that Rana would make his international debut in the final T20I of the series. KKR assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had suggested before the match that the team was considering giving the 22-year-old his first international cap. “We are trying to expose as many guys as we can to international experience, with what we have coming up. Someone like Harshit Rana, we are keen to give a game to. The plan was to win the series and then try a few new faces for the last game,” ten Doeschate said.
As per the latest IPL Governing Council regulations. KKR can now use the rule allowing them to retain uncapped players for Rs 4 crore to their advantage.
In addition, Rana has been named as one of the traveling reserves for India’s upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand. However, with established pacers like Mayank Yadav and Prasidh Krishna also named in the reserves. His chances of making his international debut in the near future appear slim.
