Harshit Rana Joins India ODI Squad for Afghanistan Finale

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has officially included fast bowler Harshit Rana in the national squad ahead of the final international fixture against Afghanistan, scheduled for June 20 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

The athletic pace bowler has successfully finalized his physical recovery schedule at the domestic governing body’s premier Centre of Excellence before linking up with his international teammates in Tamil Nadu.

How Harshit Rana get injured?

Rana was sidelined following a ligament strain affecting his right knee during a preparatory exhibition match against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. The physical setback happened just prior to the 2026 T20 World Cup, forcing him off the field after executing a solitary over. He subsequently underwent surgical correction and was completely removed from tournament contention. Ultimate tournament winners India utilized Mohammed Siraj as his roster replacement during that successful campaign.

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The physical complication additionally prevented the 24-year-old competitor from participating in the 2026 Indian Premier League season. His domestic franchise team, Kolkata Knight Riders, secured Navdeep Saini to occupy his roster spot while Rana remained focused on his extended medical recovery.

Harshit Rana’s ODI career

The bowler has participated in 14 full international one-day matches for his country, securing 16 dismissals while maintaining an average of 27.38 alongside an economy rate of 6.21. His previous competitive outing for the senior national side occurred during a home T20 series against New Zealand in January.

The versatile bowling all-rounder has also secured selection for the upcoming international tours of Ireland and England, where the national team will contest seven short-format matches under the full-time leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer.

The home side currently maintains a 2-0 lead in the current three-match competitive series against Afghanistan after securing consecutive victories in Dharamsala and Lucknow, looking to finish with a clean sweep in Chennai.

Updated squad for the third ODI against Afghanistan

Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Harshit Rana

Future Outlook

Looking past the Afghanistan series, India’s limited-overs ecosystem is preparing for a significant transition during the tour of England starting July 14 at Edgbaston. Legendary batsman Virat Kohli is reportedly demonstrating rapid medical advancement regarding a hamstring injury sustained after the 2026 domestic league final.

Insiders indicate Kohli will soon undergo formal fitness evaluations at the Centre of Excellence. Since the veteran has ended his career in the longest format and T20Is, his return will be specifically preserved for the crucial one-day matches overseas.

FAQs

Why was Harshit Rana added to the Indian squad?

The fast bowler was added to the roster for the final match against Afghanistan after successfully finishing his injury rehabilitation program at the domestic board’s Centre of Excellence.

When did Harshit Rana last play for India?

His previous appearance for the national cricket team occurred in January during a home short-format international series against New Zealand.

What is the latest update on Virat Kohli’s injury?

The veteran batsman is making excellent progress recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the domestic league final and is targeting a competitive return for the upcoming series in England.