Team India have suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan, with fast bowler Harshit Rana facing another injury concern.
The 3-match India vs Afghanistan T20 series is scheduled to begin on September 13, but Harshit’s latest setback has raised fresh concerns over India’s pace-bowling options.
Rana, who had recently returned to training after recovering from his previous injury, suffered another setback during a match simulation on Tuesday.
The injury occurred as part of his Return to Play protocol, and early reports suggest that the issue could keep him out of action for some time.
Harshit Rana injury raises fresh concerns for India
Harshit Rana was included in India’s squad for the upcoming Afghanistan T20I series and the Asian Games.
However, his latest injury could now rule him out of both assignments. The fast bowler has endured a difficult year due to repeated injury problems.
He initially suffered a knee injury during a warm-up match ahead of the T20 World Cup, which forced him to miss the tournament as well as the IPL.
Rana eventually returned to competitive cricket but suffered another setback during India’s T20I series against England.
He picked up a hamstring injury during the England tour and had been working his way back to full fitness. His latest problem has now put another question mark over his international return.
Harshit Rana could miss Afghanistan series and Asian Games
Rana’s absence would be a significant blow for India, particularly with the team preparing for a busy period of T20 cricket.
The pacer was expected to be part of India’s plans against Afghanistan and was also selected for the Asian Games.
However, his latest injury means he could miss both events. India’s management is likely to wait for further medical assessments before making a final decision on his availability.
Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar cleared
There is some positive news for India on the fitness front. Fast-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has reportedly been cleared to play.
Washington Sundar has also completed the required fitness tests and is available for selection. Their availability will provide India with more options as the team prepares for the Afghanistan series.
Jasprit Bumrah’s availability still unclear
The biggest question surrounding India’s squad is still Jasprit Bumrah. No final decision has been made regarding the senior fast bowler’s availability for the Afghanistan T20Is.
The situation is expected to become clearer before the Indian team begins its preparations in Delhi. Bumrah’s presence would be a major boost for India, especially with Harshit Rana now facing another fitness setback.
India vs Afghanistan T20I Series Schedule
India and Afghanistan will play a 3-match T20I series in September. All 3-matches are scheduled to take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | September 13 | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
| 2nd T20I | September 15 | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
| 3rd T20I | September 17 | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |