Harshit Rana Ruled Out of Third Test, Focuses on Border-Gavaskar Trophy Preparation

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that uncapped seamer Harshit Rana will not participate in the upcoming third Test match against New Zealand in Mumbai. Despite reports suggesting Rana's inclusion in the squad, Gambhir clarified that the rumors are unfounded.

Rana, who has been a part of India's white-ball teams since his impressive performance in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, has been brought to Mumbai to work with bowling coach Morne Morkel in preparation for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

"Harshit Rana is not part of the squad. He has just come here to prepare for the Australia tour," Gambhir stated at the pre-match press conference. "We have a Test match here, and we want to use this time to prepare Rana for the BGT."

Gambhir emphasized that Rana's presence in Mumbai is solely for training purposes and has no bearing on the Test squad. The team management aims to utilize this opportunity to enhance Rana's skills ahead of the crucial series against Australia.

The third Test between India and New Zealand will commence on Friday at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the same venue where New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel achieved the remarkable feat of claiming 10 wickets in an innings.

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