Sat Nov 02 03:43:21 UTC 2024: ## Uncapped Seamer Harshit Rana Ruled Out of India’s Third Test Against New Zealand
**MUMBAI, INDIA -** Despite rumours circulating about his inclusion, uncapped Indian seamer Harshit Rana will not be part of the squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand, head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed on Thursday.
Rana, who had a breakout IPL season with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, has been training with India’s white-ball teams but was reportedly added to the Test squad for the Mumbai clash. However, Gambhir clarified that the 22-year-old is currently in Mumbai to work with bowling coach Morne Morkel and prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
“Harshit Rana is not part of the squad. He has just come here to prepare for the Australia tour,” said Gambhir. “Abhishek (Nayar) made it clear yesterday. IPL retention has nothing to be spoken about, we have a Test match here.”
The third Test will commence at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Friday, the same venue where New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel famously claimed 10 wickets in an innings.
India will be aiming to wrap up the series 3-0, while New Zealand will look to salvage some pride in the final match.
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