KEY POINTS
- India pacer Harshit Rana has been declared unfit for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to a knee/thigh injury sustained in a warm-up match.
- Rana bowled a single over against South Africa before leaving the field, prompting concern from captain Suryakumar Yadav.
- The ICC has approved Mohammed Siraj as his replacement in India’s squad.
India’s hopes in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 suffered a setback as seamer Harshit Rana was ruled out of the tournament due to an injury.
Rana sustained the injury during a warm-up match against South Africa, bowling just one over before exiting the field.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav had earlier expressed concern about Rana’s fitness, saying he “didn’t look good” after the incident.
The team medical staff assessed Rana’s condition, and reports indicated he may miss the rest of the World Cup.
Sources close to the team said the injury was significant enough to rule the pace bowler out of the tournament.
Rana’s absence deprives India of both his bowling and handy lower-order batting options.
India’s cricket board confirmed that Mohammed Siraj will join the squad as Rana’s official replacement.
The International Cricket Council approved the change, ensuring India can field a full team.
Siraj brings experience from previous T20I appearances and strong Indian Premier League performances.
He is expected to bolster India’s pace attack alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh.
Rana’s injury occurred at a pivotal time, with India preparing to defend their title at home and in Sri Lanka.
The World Cup opens on February 7, and India were due to play their first match against the United States.
The team remains confident in its depth despite the setback.
Yadav emphasised that India has multiple bowling and all-round options to fill the void.
Selectors are adjusting combinations as the tournament nears kickoff.
Backup seamers and all-rounders are in line to contribute in later matches.
Rana’s development into a valuable player over recent seasons made his loss notable.
He has shown promise both with the new ball and in batting lower down the order.
The team’s management said they will monitor other players’ fitness closely as the event progresses.
Washington Sundar is also under watch after missing part of preparation due to a side strain.
India’s squad still includes key names like Bumrah, Arshdeep, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube.
These players form the core of a balanced team for the global tournament.
The loss of Rana could affect India’s plans for certain matchups, but depth gives flexibility.
Fans and analysts will watch how the bowling lineup adapts under pressure.
India aims to become the first team to defend the T20 World Cup successfully.
Host nation status adds motivation to perform strongly despite injuries.
