The BCCI Men’s Selection Committee has named Yash Thakur as the replacement for injured fast bowler Harshit Rana for India’s upcoming assignments against Afghanistan and at the 2026 Asian Games.
Rana has been ruled out of both tournaments after suffering a thigh injury during a match-simulation session at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) on September 7. The BCCI medical team assessed the pacer and recommended a period of focused rehabilitation before he can return to competitive cricket.
The development comes as India prepare for a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, beginning on September 13 in New Delhi.
Yash Thakur replaces Harshit Rana in India squad
Yash Thakur will now take Rana’s place in both squads. The 27-year-old right-arm pacer has already made his international debut and brings domestic experience to the Indian setup.
Thakur recently featured in India’s T20I series against Zimbabwe in July, playing two matches and claiming four wickets. His performances at the domestic level have also helped him earn recognition as a reliable white-ball bowler.
The Punjab Kings pacer in the IPL has played 50 matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he has taken 81 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.04. His ability to consistently pick up wickets while maintaining control makes him a useful addition to India’s T20 squad.
Harshit Rana ruled out after thigh injury
Rana’s withdrawal is a setback for India ahead of two important assignments. According to the BCCI, the fast bowler sustained a rectus femoris strain, involving the thigh muscle, during a match-simulation practice session at the CoE.
Following an assessment by the board’s medical team, Rana has been ruled out of both the Afghanistan T20I series and the Asian Games. He will now undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of the medical staff.
The decision ensures that the pacer gets adequate time to recover instead of being rushed back into action.
Yash Thakur set for Afghanistan series and Asian Games 2026
Thakur is expected to join the Indian squad in New Delhi ahead of the opening T20I against Afghanistan on September 13.
Following the Afghanistan series, he will travel with the team for the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, which are scheduled to take place later this month.
The back-to-back assignments will provide Thakur with an opportunity to establish himself further in India’s T20 setup. Having already made his international debut, the pacer will now be eager to make the most of an extended run with the national team.
Jasprit Bumrah cleared for Afghanistan T20Is
The BCCI also delivered positive news regarding Jasprit Bumrah. India’s premier fast bowler has successfully completed all required workload and fitness benchmarks and has received clearance to feature against Afghanistan.
Bumrah’s availability is a major boost for India, particularly with Rana now unavailable. His experience and ability to lead the bowling attack will be crucial as India begin preparations for their upcoming international commitments.
