Harshit Rana's IPL stint for KKR gone for a toss after T20 World Cup blow, to be released?

Harshit Rana's knee injury gets serious [Source: @KnightsVibe/X.com]

Harshit Rana's rapid rise in Indian cricket has hit an unexpected pause. Just when the young pacer was enjoying his best phase, injury struck at the worst possible time.  Rana is now ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026.

 And his availability for IPL 2026 is also under serious doubt. For KKR, this could not have come at a worse moment. With the new season less than two months away, any last minute hiccups in combination could hurt the franchise big time.

Knee injury terminates World Cup aspirations of Harshit Rana

Harshit Rana was one of India’s breakout performers in 2025. He showed pace, control, and courage in pressure situations. Despite receiving incessant backlash and trolls, he stood his ground and proved himself.

In addition, his selection for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 seemed like a reward for his hard work.

However, during India’s only warm-up match against South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium, Harshit Rana suffered a knee injury. He bowled just one over and looked visibly uncomfortable. 

Soon after, he was forced to walk off the field. Medical scans later confirmed the worst, and subsequently, Rana was ruled out of the tournament.

The BCCI moved quickly and named Mohammed Siraj as his replacement. And just like that, Rana’s first World Cup dream was over before it even began.

Harshit Rana’s surgery is likely, IPL 2026 is under threat

The bigger concern now is Rana’s recovery timeline. According to reports, the 24-year-old is set to undergo knee surgery. While surgery may help in the long term, it puts his short-term future in doubt.

The IPL 2026 begins on March 26. Surgery followed by rehabilitation might just make it difficult for Harshit Rana to be match-fit in time. Even if he returns, it is unlikely he will be ready for the early part of the season.

This is a major blow for KKR. The franchise retained Rana for INR 4 crore under the uncapped player rule. He was expected to lead the pace attack, and his recent experience at the international level was meant to add maturity to the bowling unit.

KKR are already thin on fast-bowling options. Mustafizur Rahman’s replacement is yet to be confirmed. Losing Harshit Rana, even temporarily, creates a big gap.

What does it mean for KKR's plans?

KKR had high hopes from Harshit Rana this season. He was meant to be a key Indian pacer who could bowl in the powerplay and at the death. His absence forces the team management to rethink combinations.

The franchise may now look for a backup Indian pacer or rely more heavily on overseas bowlers. This could affect team balance. 

Much depends on how Rana’s recovery progresses over the next few weeks. For now, his IPL future remains uncertain.

Jasprit Bumrah concern adds to India’s worries

India’s injury troubles do not end with Harshit Rana. Jasprit Bumrah is also a concern ahead of the tournament opener. Reports suggest Bumrah missed a training session due to mild illness and fever.

While it is not considered serious, the team may avoid risks early in the tournament. If Bumrah sits out, Mohammed Siraj could step into the playing XI once again.

With key matches coming up quickly, India will focus on player fitness. For Harshit Rana, the focus now shifts to recovery.