Harshit Rana Aims to Shine as India's All-Rounder in ODI Victory

In a thrilling first ODI against New Zealand, Harshit Rana showcased his potential as an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball. He expressed confidence in his ability to score crucial runs and emphasized the team's goal of developing him in this role. India's victory by four wickets was marked by significant performances, including Virat Kohli's near-century. This match highlights Rana's aspirations and the team's strategy moving forward. Read on to discover more about this exciting encounter and Rana's journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 02:03 IST

Harshit Rana's All-Rounder Aspirations

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], January 12: Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana has expressed his ambition to develop into a reliable all-rounder, revealing that the team management is supporting this goal. He is determined to enhance his skills and believes he can contribute significantly with the bat, aiming for 30-40 runs from his position.

During the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on Sunday, Rana demonstrated his all-round capabilities. He took two crucial wickets, dismissing New Zealand's openers Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls.

With the bat, Rana made a valuable contribution, scoring 29 runs off just 23 balls, which included two boundaries and a six. His performance helped relieve some pressure off KL Rahul.

After the match, Rana stated, “The management is keen on developing me as an all-rounder, and I am focused on that in practice. They want me to bat at No. 8, and I am confident I can deliver 30-40 runs when needed.”

India secured a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in this thrilling encounter. After Virat Kohli's impressive innings of 93, the team faced a slight setback, but KL Rahul's composed 29 not out off 21 balls ensured the win in the penultimate over.

In a nail-biting chase, India reached 306 runs in 49 overs, with Rahul and Washington Sundar forming a crucial partnership to clinch the match by four wickets.

Brief score: New Zealand 300/8 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 84, Henry Nicholls 62; Mohammed Siraj 2/40) vs India 306/6 in 49 overs (Virat Kohli 93, Shubman Gill 56; Kyle Jamieson 4/41).