• BCCI has officially added fast bowler Harshit Rana to Team India’s squad for the Test series against England.

  • Fans slammed Gautam Gambhir and BCCI for ignoring Anshul Kamboj, a standout performer in recent India A games.

“Gambhir quota se admission”: Fans fume as BCCI picks Harshit Rana for England Tests and ignores Anshul Kamboj
Fans slam BCCI for ignoring Anshul Kamboj and selecting Harshit Rana in India squad (Image Source: X)

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially added fast bowler Harshit Rana to Team India’s squad for the Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley. However, the decision has not gone down well with a large section of cricket fans, who have openly criticized India head coach and the BCCI for ignoring Anshul Kamboj, a standout performer in recent India A games.

Anshul Kamboj ignored despite impressive performance

Kamboj had made a compelling case for selection with his performances in the unofficial Tests for India A against England Lions, where he picked up five wickets and even scored a crucial half-century. In contrast, Rana managed just one wicket in the only unofficial Test he featured in.

There were reports suggesting the Indian team management was keen on integrating Kamboj into the senior set-up, especially given the swing-friendly English conditions, but the move never materialized. In fact, Kamboj has reportedly been released from the squad, much to the disbelief of fans.

Bias accusations fly as fans slam inclusion of Harshit Rana in India squad

Many fans believe that Rana’s inclusion is influenced by his association with the Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL franchise where Gautam Gambhir had served as mentor. The fast bowler has also been visibly backed by Gambhir during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and domestic campaigns.

This marks Gautam Gambhir’s first major selection controversy as India’s new head coach. While the official statement says Rana was part of the India A squad and has now linked up with the senior team, fans are far from convinced, pointing to Gambhir’s visible preference for players he has previously worked with.

With the series set to begin at Headingley, a ground known for aiding fast bowlers, many believe Kamboj’s skills would have been better suited for the conditions.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Shubman Gill will be a successful Indian captain in the England tour

Here’s how fans reacted:

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