Harshit Rana has suffered another injury setback after being ruled out of India’s ongoing ODI series against England with a hamstring injury. The 24-year-old fast bowler picked up the injury during the T20I leg of the tour, dealing another blow to his comeback. The news is a concern for Team India, as Rana is considered one of the country’s most promising fast bowlers ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
According to a PTI report, Rana’s fitness may have played a part in the injury. The report claimed that the Delhi pacer joined the Indian squad carrying excess weight, which increased the strain on his body. Fast bowlers are more likely to suffer muscle injuries if they are not at the required fitness levels, making conditioning an important part of their preparation.
Scans Confirm Mild Hamstring Tear
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 board said. A Grade 1 hamstring injury is considered a mild muscle tear, but it still requires rest and rehabilitation before a player can return to action.
A BCCI source also stressed the importance of Rana improving his fitness. “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. The management believes his all-round skills make him an important player for India’s future.
How did Virat Kohli become one of IPL’s most reliable chasers?
The same source revealed that Rana was found to be overweight when he joined the 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. The report suggests that maintaining peak fitness will be crucial if Rana wants to avoid similar injuries in the future.
Team Management Keeps Faith in Young Pacer
This injury comes just after Rana had returned from another long spell on the sidelines. Earlier this year, he underwent knee surgery, which forced him to miss the entire IPL 2026 season. After spending nearly four months recovering, he finally returned to international cricket on the England tour, only to suffer another setback.
Rana’s comeback was brief, as he featured in five T20Is and bowled just 14 overs before injuring his hamstring. Despite the disappointment, the Indian team management continues to have complete faith in the young pacer. He remains part of India’s long-term plans and is expected to play a major role if he stays fit over the next two years.
The selectors reportedly see Harshit Rana as one of India’s frontline fast bowlers for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa and Zimbabwe. His ability to consistently bowl above 140 kmph and contribute valuable runs lower down the order makes him a valuable option in white-ball cricket. He has also shown his quality overseas, taking six wickets in three innings during India’s recent tour of Australia while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 6.05. India will now hope the young pacer recovers quickly and returns stronger for the challenges ahead.
Gurnoor Brar Receives ICC Reprimand Ahead of England 2nd ODI: Here’s Why