Harshit Rana Praises Rohit and Kohli’s Guidance Ahead of Second ODI

Harshit Rana says sharing the dressing room with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has already shaped his early international career. The 23-year-old has played 16 matches for India so far, and in nine of those, he has been around the two senior icons. Ahead of the second ODI against South Africa, Rana described the atmosphere within the squad as “very happy” and credited the senior duo for keeping the group motivated.

"It is a big thing for me, and for the entire team too," Rana said on Tuesday, a day before the second ODI. He highlighted how the presence of experienced players changes everything. "If such experienced players are with you in the dressing room and on the field, the environment stays great… They always want youngsters to get better."

Rana added that Rohit and Kohli constantly guide him during pressure moments and help him understand what to do next. "They are always motivated, whether it is good times or bad times. They back you and tell you what next steps you should take."

New-ball Role and Learning from Seniors

Known originally for his middle-overs skills and deceptive slower balls, Harshit Rana was given a new role in the first ODI, opening the bowling. The move worked instantly, as he picked up two wickets in his very first over.

Rana credited bowling coach Morne Morkel and Arshdeep Singh for their input. "With the new ball, I've practiced a lot with Morne [Morkel], and also talk a lot with Arshdeep [Singh]," he said. He explained how Arshdeep’s experience helps him refine his plans and execution.

Impact of the New ODI Ball Rule

Rana also acknowledged how much the recent ICC rule change has benefited fast bowlers. In ODIs, both new balls are used until the 34th over; at the start of the 35th, the bowling side chooses which one to continue with.

"This rule has been very helpful for us," Rana said. He explained that bowlers keep an eye on which ball is older and that the team collectively decides which one to use for the last phase of the innings.

He also described how bowling in India demands constant variation. "In each phase, you have to bowl differently in different roles: sometimes attacking, sometimes defensive."

Possible Middle-Order Change for India

Ahead of the second ODI, India could also look at adjusting their middle order. Rishabh Pant and Tilak Varma had long sessions against net bowlers, with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate watching closely, hinting that a reshuffle may be on the cards for Wednesday’s game.