Harshit Rana Tipped as India’s Breakout Star in Champions Trophy 2025 After Bumrah’s Absence: ‘Go-Getter, Not Afraid of Anything
With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to injury, India’s bowling attack has taken a serious hit. However, former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan believes there’s a silver lining, as he has picked Harshit Rana to have a breakout tournament, calling him a fearless go-getter who thrives under pressure.
As India prepares to begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, all eyes will now be on Harshit Rana, who was named Bumrah’s replacement in the squad. Can the young pacer rise to the occasion and fill the void left by India’s best bowler?
Bumrah’s Injury Leaves India in a Tough Spot
India was dealt a major blow when Jasprit Bumrah suffered a back spasm during the Sydney Test against Australia. Despite initially being named in the 15-member Champions Trophy squad, he failed to get fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA), ruling him out of the tournament.
This left India with a huge hole in their pace attack, as Bumrah’s ability to bowl in all phases of the game, his pinpoint accuracy, and his calmness under pressure are unmatched.
“My concern is they are going to miss Jasprit Bumrah. There is no doubt he will be a big absence, and I think they will feel it very strongly. For me, he is the best bowler in the world, and his accuracy is hard to replicate,”
Dhawan wrote in his column for the ICC
However, while Bumrah’s absence is a setback, Dhawan believes Harshit Rana is more than capable of stepping up and making a name for himself on the big stage.
Harshit Rana’s Rise: From IPL Sensation to India’s X-Factor
Harshit Rana’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. The Delhi-born pacer first gained recognition in IPL 2024, where he had a breakout season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), impressing with his raw pace, aggression, and ability to deliver under pressure.
His impressive performances in the IPL earned him a Test debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, and he followed it up with a strong ODI debut against England.
Harshit Rana’s Performance Against England (ODI Series 2025):
✅ 6 wickets in 3 matches
✅ Consistent speed & accuracy
✅ Ability to swing the new ball and bowl yorkers at the death
His fearless approach and hunger for challenges have caught the attention of many, including Shikhar Dhawan, who has watched Rana closely since both have represented Delhi in domestic cricket.
“At the same time, Harshit Rana has come into the side and I think that is really exciting – keep an eye on him, I think he could have a breakout tournament,”
Dhawan added.
What Makes Harshit Rana Special? Dhawan’s Verdict
Dhawan, who has played alongside Rana in domestic cricket, believes the young pacer’s attitude and mentality set him apart.
“I like his attitude, he is a go-getter, and he is not afraid of anything. He accepts challenges, and we have seen in the England series that he is in form. I am sure he will look to seize this opportunity and, if he does, he could provide a real X-factor for India.”
Key Qualities of Harshit Rana:
🔥 Fearless under pressure – Takes on big players without hesitation.
🔥 Aggressive mindset – Never backs down from a challenge.
🔥 Versatility – Can swing the new ball and deliver in the death overs.
🔥 Big-match temperament – Has already played in high-pressure IPL and international matches.
With these attributes, Rana could bring the much-needed spark to India’s pace attack in Bumrah’s absence.
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Group & Schedule
India has been placed in Group A, alongside:
🏏 Pakistan
🏏 New Zealand
🏏 Bangladesh
India’s Group Stage Matches:
📅 February 20 – India vs Bangladesh (Dubai)
📅 February 23 – India vs Pakistan (Dubai)
📅 March 2 – India vs New Zealand (Dubai)
With Pakistan and New Zealand being strong opponents, India will need their fast bowlers to step up, and Harshit Rana could be the key to India’s success in this tournament.
Can Harshit Rana Fill Bumrah’s Shoes?
While expecting any bowler to replace Jasprit Bumrah is unrealistic, Harshit Rana has the raw talent and hunger to make a serious impact.
Challenges He Will Face:
⚠️ Adapting to UAE pitches – Conditions may not assist fast bowlers much.
⚠️ Handling pressure in big matches – The India vs Pakistan clash will be a major test.
⚠️ Bowling at the death – Without Bumrah, India lacks an experienced death-over specialist.
Why He Could Shine:
✅ Recent form is outstanding – He has already delivered in high-pressure international games.
✅ Mentorship from senior pacers like Mohammed Shami – Learning from experienced bowlers will help.
✅ India’s strong batting lineup – Gives bowlers some cushion to attack freely.
If Rana can bring his fearless approach to the Champions Trophy, he could not only cement his place in the Indian team but also become a major weapon in future ICC tournaments.
Will Harshit Rana Become India’s Next Fast-Bowling Star?
With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out, the spotlight is now on Harshit Rana. The young pacer has already impressed with his speed, aggression, and ability to handle pressure—now, he has the chance to prove himself on the world stage.
Can he rise to the occasion and become the breakout star of the Champions Trophy 2025? India certainly hopes so!
🏏🔥 Stay tuned as Harshit Rana gears up to lead India’s pace attack in the Champions Trophy 2025! 🔥🏏
