India’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 hit a fresh injury concern ahead of their campaign start, with promising fast bowler Harshit Rana limping off during the warm-up match against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. And just a day before India's opening match against USA, it has been revealed that he has been ruled out of the tournament.
Injury in warm-up clash
During India’s only warm-up game against South Africa at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Rana was brought on to bowl in the early stages of the Proteas’ chase. However, after bowling a solitary over in which he conceded 16 runs, the 24-year-old began showing discomfort in his knee, pulling out of his run-up on multiple occasions before eventually hobbling off the field and ending his participation in the match.
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Visuals from the game showed the pacer in visible distress and clutching his knee, sparking immediate concern. It triggered alarm bells given the proximity of the World Cup. Scans and medical evaluations took place & eventually the decision has been taken as he has been ruled out due to due to join tenderness, giving India a big blow.
India's plans take a massive hit
Harshit Rana had emerged as a bright young pace option for India across formats. Having made his T20I debut in early 2025, he quickly impressed with his ability to move the ball and bowl disciplined spells in pressure situations. Rana has also contributed with the bat in limited overs cricket, showing lower-order hitting capability in ODI matches before the World Cup cycle began.
Selectors had considered Rana a strong contender for a role in India’s T20 World Cup bowling attack, particularly as a seam option capable of bowling during both powerplay and middle overs, but they will now have to switch to Plan B.
Siraj set to replace Harshit
India had the option of Prasidh Krishna to consider for replacement, but they have gone ahead with the experience of Mohammed Siraj. The right-arm pacer has not played a T20I for India since July 2025 but is someone who always steps up for his team when needed. He has picked up 14 wickets in 16 T20Is at an economy of 7.79 & might play a few games when India decides to rest Bumrah or Arshdeep.
