Abhishek Nayar refutes addition of Harshit Rana to India squad for third Test vs New Zealand

Team India is all set to take on New Zealand in the third and final Test of the ongoing series. The series so far has not been a beneficial one for the hosts. Facing New Zealand across the first two Tests of the series, India lost the clashes in Bengaluru and Pune. 

For the third Test, both sides will gather at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from November 1. Ahead of the Test, the hosts will hope to grab a consolation win against the Black Caps, having lost the series already. 

Ahead of the third Test, India’s assistant coach Abhishek Nayar came forward and talked about the changes in the squad for the final Test. Many had expected Harshit Rana to make his debut, playing in the third Test, however, Nayar claimed that there will be no additions to the squad. 

"No additions to the squad. Every week is critical, every day is critical. We have not been narrow-minded in thinking about the WTC final. We want to focus on this match,” Nayar said in the pre-match press conference as quoted by RevSportz.

It is worth noting that Rana was called up to the squad ahead of the third Test. However, it seems like he will only be present as a net bowler. He was a part of the travelling reserves for the NZ Test series, and interestingly, he is also a part of the squad which will travel to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar series 2024-25.

It is about self reflection and go about their game plan: Nayar

Furthermore, Nayar talked about what game plan the Indian team has ahead of the third Test. He credited the way that New Zealand played the first two Tests, lauding their performances, but highlighted the importance of self reflection as well. 

"Credit to NZ the way they have played and countered spin. Wankhede will be different with red soil. A lot of guys have played local cricket here and know the conditions. It is about self reflection and go about their game plan,” Nayar said.