Kolkata Knight Riders pacer Harshit Rana recently revealed the profound impact of a simple piece of advice from veteran cricketer Rohit Sharma during a high-stakes ODI against Australia in Sydney. Rana, who delivered a sensational spell of 4/39 in that match, recounted how Rohit's intervention regarding field placement led directly to a crucial breakthrough.
The incident occurred when Australia was cruising at 183/3. Rana was hesitant to place a slip fielder, believing the ball wasn't moving enough. Rohit Sharma, however, insisted on the placement, advising Rana that a slip should always be in place for a new batter. The very next delivery resulted in a wicket, validating the senior player's tactical insight.
This experience has become an unforgettable lesson for the young KKR pacer, who has since adopted the strategy consistently. Rana, who has impressed early in his ODI career with 23 wickets at an average of 27.3, credits such mentorship for helping him navigate the pressures of international cricket and build confidence ahead of the upcoming IPL season.
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“Rohit bhai then said, ‘From now on, whenever a new batter comes in, you will take a slip — whether I’m there or not.”
Leading leading wicket takers performers in IPL Career (bowling specialists only: bowlers/all-rounders)
Open the full leaderboard for detailed rankings.
| Statistic |
|---|
IPL Career Best Bowling Figures Leaders | Bowling Rankings Led by Hardik Pandya (5/36) |
Best Batting Average - Career Led by Sai Sudharsan (49.81) |
IPL Career Best Bowling Average Leaders | Bowling Rankings Led by Ramandeep Singh (10.50) |
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He received support from Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored 53 off 57 balls, and Harshit Rana, who impressed with a quick 52 off 43 deliveries.
Harshit Rana: 23 wickets (13 innings)
I think Harshit is pulling his weight in the side. He bats decently. Of course, he has been selected with promise because very few bowlers bowl at 140 kph and give batting at No. 8. You have a contender for the World Cup, where if you need a pacer and not a spinner at No. 8, you can always have Harshit there.

“Rohit bhai then said, ‘From now on, whenever a new batter comes in, you will take a slip — whether I’m there or not.”