Dharamsala, Dec 15 (NationPress) India’s seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana expressed his enthusiasm for sharing the new ball with Arshdeep Singh, acknowledging the left-arm fast bowler's ability to exert pressure from the other end.

During the third T20I at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday, both Arshdeep and Rana, stepping in for Jasprit Bumrah, who was absent due to personal matters, set a strong foundation for India’s seven-wicket victory by capitalizing on the favorable seam conditions and securing three wickets in the powerplay.

The pair achieved an impressive combined figure of 4 for 47 over eight overs, which was pivotal in ensuring India’s comfortable win and granting them a 2-1 series lead. “I genuinely enjoy bowling alongside him with the new ball, particularly because he generates pressure from one end. I strive to complement him with my own skills. His wealth of experience is incredibly beneficial to me,” stated Rana.

“I discovered I was playing this match at midnight. It’s my debut here in Dharamsala, and I’ve never visited before. Bowling here is thrilling; the weather offers great assistance, making it enjoyable,” Rana shared in a video released by BCCI’s social media on Monday.

Arshdeep, who earned the Player of the Match title with figures of 2-13, had a challenging outing in the second T20I at New Chandigarh, where he conceded 54 runs, including seven wides in one over. He credited his composure and the support from the team for his resurgence in Dharamsala, a venue where he plays for Punjab Kings in the IPL.

“Regardless of the situation, I strive to maintain a level demeanor. I attempt to keep the dressing room atmosphere light because, at the international level, being away from family can induce significant pressure. If I have an off day, my teammates provide support to uplift me. That’s the essence of team spirit,” he remarked.

He humorously mentioned that bowling coach Morne Morkel could have potentially played if he were still active on the international stage. “If the bowling coach were playing on this wicket, I doubt I’d be in the lineup. After the last match, he mentioned I gave him too much screen time,” Rana quipped.

Morkel responded with laughter regarding the increase in his screen time during the second T20I and expressed satisfaction with India’s performance with the ball. “I received numerous messages from players about my visibility on screen during the red ball and 50-over series, joking that I should pay for my own private channel because I was so prominent,” he said.

“I’m thrilled with how the boys bounced back in this match. It was a remarkable comeback with the ball,” he added. Morkel concluded by appreciating the stunning surroundings of Dharamsala, stating, “The beauty of this ground is that even on an off day, you can gaze at the mountains and realize that life varies every day. There’s immense joy in playing at this venue; it’s one of my favorite grounds worldwide.”