Indian fast-bowler Harshit Rana has broken his silence on his on-field exchange with Australia’s Mitchell Starc during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. In what became one of the more talked-about moments of the Test series, Harshit shared what really unfolded between him and his former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) teammate, and how senior pros Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stoked the fire from the slips.
The battle began when Harshit peppered Starc with short-pitched deliveries. He did not back down despite Starc’s reputation. In response, Starc even reminded Harshit that he bowls faster than him.
What followed was a gripping sequence of overs. Harshit Rana had the last laugh and dismissed Mitchell Starc for 26 runs. The Aussie tried to outdo Harshit. He retaliated with a few bouncers of his own and even struck Harshit on the helmet in return in the second Test.
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Harshit Rana Talks About Getting Hit by Mitchell Starc in Test Match
Recalling the moment in greater detail, Harshit shared how Virat Kohli and KL Rahul added their own spice to the contest from behind the stumps. Stationed at slip, the two senior players encouraged Harshit to keep up the heat on Starc.
"I bowled a bouncer at him after a long time. One of them hit his helmet. When he sledged, I just laughed it off. But while I was walking back for my run-up, I was like 'mar gaya. Ab ye maarega mujhe bouncer' (I'm dead, now he will bowl bouncers at me). And then, from behind, Virat bhai and KL bhai kept shouting 'maarta reh, maarta reh, idhar hi maar isko' (keep hitting him at the same spot!). I was like 'Bhaiya aap toh khel loge, mere lagegi sar pe!' (You both will play him easily, I'll get hit on the helmet!)," Harshit said as quoted in a conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia.
"He actually hit me on the helmet in the second Test," he added.
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What Lies Ahead for Harshit Rana?
Though Harshit was part of India’s squad for the England Test series, he was later released. Still, the management has him firmly in their plans in white-ball cricket.
He last played for India in the Champions Trophy earlier this year and is likely to return to action during India’s upcoming Asia Cup campaign.
