Harshit Rana’s Injury Update- Careless Attitude Leads To Mid Series Damage

Harshit Rana [Source: AFP]

India young pacer Harshit Rana has suffered another major setback after being ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against England due to a hamstring injury. 

While the injury itself came during the T20I leg of the tour, fresh reports have now revealed that Rana's fitness levels may have played a significant role in the unfortunate setback.

The latest development comes as a concern for Team India, considering the 24-year-old is regarded as one of the country's brightest fast-bowling prospects ahead of 2027 ODI World Cup.

Reports suggest fitness issues behind Harshit Rana’s injury

Meanwhile, a PTI report has claimed that Rana reported to the Indian squad carrying excess weight, which may have contributed to his hamstring injury. 

The BCCI had earlier confirmed the nature of the injury in an official statement. "Rana reported a sudden onset of discomfort in his right hamstring during the third T20I against England at Trent Bridge. Subsequent scans revealed a Grade 1 hamstring injury," the BCCI stated.

Furthermore, a PTI report quoted a BCCI source highlighting the importance of Rana maintaining better fitness standards going forward.

"Harshit is a very important member of this team going into the 2027 World Cup. He is being looked at as a potential No. 8 batter along with his ability to consistently bowl around 140 kmph. But he has to be mindful about his fitness routine," the source said.

Also Read: Harshit Rana's Replacement In India ODI Squad Vs England Announced

The source further explained that Rana was found to be overweight upon joining the IND vs ENG squad.

"Recently, when he joined the team, he was found to be overweight. For someone who bowls fast, if that player is found to be overweight, then obviously the load on the body can lead to a hamstring tear," the source added.

Harshit Rana's return ended in another injury

Notably, Harshit Rana had recently returned to competitive cricket after spending nearly 4 months on the sidelines. The Delhi pacer had undergone knee surgery earlier this year, forcing him to miss the entire IPL 2026 before making his comeback on the England tour.

However, his return proved to be short-lived. Notably, Rana featured in five matches during the T20I series and bowled only 14 overs before suffering another injury. 

Harshit Rana still a key part of India's ODI World Cup plans

Despite the latest setback, Harshit Rana continues to be highly rated by the Indian team management. The selectors reportedly view him as one of the frontline fast bowlers for 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa and Zimbabwe, while he also remains in contention for India's long-term plans beyond that tournament.

Notably, his ability to bowl consistently above 140 kmph, coupled with his useful lower-order batting, makes him a valuable asset in white-ball cricket.

Moreover, Rana has already shown his potential in overseas conditions. During India's tour of Australia, he impressed with six wickets in three innings while maintaining an excellent economy rate of 6.05.

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