Harshit Rana vs Prasidh Krishna: Who Deserves a Spot in India’s Playing XI for 1st ODI Against Australia?

After a great run in T20Is and Tests, Team India will try to keep their good form in ODIs when they face Australia in a three-match series down under. The first ODI will be played in Perth on Sunday, October 19.

This is the first ODI series between the two teams since the 2023 World Cup, and both sides are looking ahead to the 2027 World Cup. Most of the talk before the series is about the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the Indian team.

However, there is not much debate about India’s batting order. The main question is about the fast bowlers. India have to choose between Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna. Since the first ODI is in Perth, India will likely play three pacers. Siraj and Arshdeep are almost sure to be picked, which leaves one spot between Harshit and Prasidh.

Here, we look at the key points that could help India decide who to pick between Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna for the first ODI against Australia.

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1. Current Form

There is little difference between Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna in their current ODI form. Harshit made his India debut this year and was part of the 2025 Champions Trophy-winning team. Harshit has 10 wickets in five ODIs at an average of 20.70 and an economy of 5.69. Prasidh last played an ODI in the India-Australia series in 2023. However, Prasidh impressed in his last Test in England, taking eight wickets in two innings. He also has 29 wickets in 17 ODIs at an average of 25.58. Harshit played two 50-over games against Australia A for India A, taking three wickets at an average under 26. Prasidh had a better IPL 2025, with 25 wickets at an economy of 8.27, while Harshit took 15 wickets at over 10 economy.

Edge: Tie

2. Selection by Hierarchy

Close calls often depend on the pecking order. Harshit has played in the recent ODI Champions Trophy, taking four wickets in two matches at an average of 15.25 and an economy under four. Prasidh has not played an ODI in over two years. Both have limited Test experience in Australia, but Harshit has played one Test in Perth, which could help him adapt better.

Edge: Harshit Rana

3. Better Fit

India may play all three all-rounders, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar, at Nos. 6–8. This leaves three spots for specialist bowlers. If Kuldeep Yadav is included as a spinner, either Harshit or Prasidh may miss out. Neither is a specialist with the new ball, but Prasidh is a better death bowler. However, Harshit is a better lower-order hitter. His first-class batting average is 31.18, compared to Prasidh’s 8.91. This makes him a better fit if India plays Kuldeep and three pacers.

Edge: Harshit Rana

Conclusion

Harshit Rana’s recent selections in the ODI squad favor him over Prasidh Krishna. While Prasidh is in good form and offers versatility, Harshit’s batting ability allows India more team combinations in Perth.

Verdict: Team India should pick Harshit Rana over Prasidh Krishna for the first ODI against Australia.