India have suffered a setback ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 with pacer Harshit Rana ruled out of the tournament due to a knee injury.
Rana picked up the injury during India’s warm-up match against South Africa on February 4 at Navi Mumbai. He bowled just one over before limping off with visible discomfort.
The team later reported knee joint tenderness, and medical staff have confirmed that he will miss the entire tournament on home soil.
India will miss not only Rana’s raw pace but also his ability to contribute with the bat down the order. He had emerged as a useful option who added depth to both bowling and batting.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav had hinted at trouble soon after the game, saying the injury did not look good while physios assessed the youngster.
“He is still not ruled out but looks doubtful. We will know by evening. He had a niggle during the warm-up game on Wednesday but the situation is not very encouraging,” Suryakumar said at the time.
Mohammed Siraj is expected to be named as Rana’s replacement, although the BCCI is yet to make an official announcement. Siraj brings experience and control, especially in pressure games.
The injury comes at a sensitive moment for India, just days before their group-stage clash against the USA. The team management now has limited time to settle combinations.
India’s updated squad sees Suryakumar leading the side, with Axar Patel as vice-captain. The squad balances power hitters, all-rounders, and a strong bowling unit.
Alongside Suryakumar, the batting group includes Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh.
The bowling attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, with support from Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and expected inclusion Mohammed Siraj.
India will hope Rana’s absence does not disrupt their plans as they chase another world title at home.
India Squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Axar Patel (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy.