New Delhi: India have made a late change to their squads for the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan and the 2026 Asian Games, with fast bowler Harshit Rana ruled out due to injury.
Vidarbha pacer Yash Thakur has been named as Rana’s replacement for both assignments. The 27 year old will now be part of India’s squads for the three match T20I series against Afghanistan as well as the Asian Games campaign in Japan. (The Indian Express)
Rana has been dealing with recurring fitness problems after suffering a hamstring injury earlier this year. His latest setback has ruled him out of the upcoming international series and the continental event, forcing the Indian team management to make a last minute adjustment.
Thakur earned his T20I debut during India’s tour of Zimbabwe and made an immediate impact, taking four wickets in two matches. The Vidarbha seamer has also been a consistent performer in domestic T20 cricket, claiming 81 wickets in 50 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy appearances. (The Indian Express)
Yash Thakur Gets Major Opportunity
The replacement comes at an important stage for Thakur, who now has an opportunity to strengthen his case for a regular place in India’s limited overs setup.
India’s Afghanistan T20I series will begin on September 13 in New Delhi, with the second and third matches scheduled for September 15 and 17.
The team will then travel to Japan for the Asian Games later this month. The men’s cricket competition is scheduled to begin with India entering the tournament at the quarterfinal stage.
The updated squad includes several established names, with Shreyas Iyer leading the side and players such as Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma also included.
Rana’s absence leaves India with one fewer pace option, but Thakur’s inclusion provides the team with another domestic performer who has already had a taste of international cricket. (The Indian Express)
