Fast bowler
The injury is understood to be concerning, potentially disrupting the national team's selection plans. Rana had been working his way back to full fitness following a series of physical challenges that have hampered his progress over the past year. His latest medical issue comes at a critical juncture as the squad prepares for a busy international schedule.
A history of injury setbacks
Rana’s recent career has been plagued by fitness concerns. His current struggle follows a hamstring injury sustained during the third T20I against England at Trent Bridge earlier this year. Furthermore, the bowler previously missed the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup after suffering a knee injury during a warm-up match against South Africa. That incident necessitated surgery, which subsequently ruled him out of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, where he was slated to represent the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Following an extensive rehabilitation process, there had been optimism regarding his return, with the bowler recently added to the Indian squad for the third ODI against Afghanistan in Chennai on June 20. However, this latest development during the RTP protocol marks another frustrating delay in his comeback.
Squad status and upcoming fixtures
While the news regarding Rana is discouraging, other players are showing positive signs of recovery. Nitish Kumar Reddy has been given the all-clear by medical staff, and Washington Sundar has also successfully met the required fitness benchmarks. Clarity regarding the availability of Jasprit Bumrah is expected before the team begins its formal preparations.
India is scheduled to face Afghanistan in a three-match T20I series on September 13, 15, and 17. Although the matches are set to take place in Delhi, Afghanistan remains the designated host for the bilateral series. Following the conclusion of these fixtures, the Indian contingent is scheduled to depart for the Asian Games on September 18. The team is also slated to play a solitary T20I against Japan on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture.
