Harshit Rana Released from Indian Squad Ahead of Second Test Against England. Fast bowler Harshit Rana has been released from the Indian Test squad ahead of the second match in the five-Test series against England. The upcoming game is scheduled to begin on 2nd July at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
Harshit Rana, originally part of the India A setup, was drafted into the senior team before the first Test at Headingley, Leeds. However, according to a report by the Times of India, he did not travel with the rest of the squad to Birmingham, as he did not board the team bus that departed around 11:30 AM local time.
While the rest of the players made the three-hour journey to the next venue, Rana is set to return home to India.
Gautam Gambhir Explains Harshit Rana’s Inclusion: “There Was a Minor Niggle in the Group”
Following India’s defeat in the first Test against England, head coach Gautam Gambhir clarified the reasoning behind Harshit Rana’s sudden inclusion in the squad. Addressing the media, Gambhir said Rana was brought in as a precaution due to minor fitness concerns within the team.
“I haven’t spoken to the chairman of selectors yet, but I will. There was a bit of a niggle in the group, which is why we wanted Harshit Rana as a backup. Right now, things seem fine, so if everyone remains fit, he’ll have to return,” Gambhir explained.
Rana’s selection sparked criticism, especially since he hadn’t performed notably in the India A matches. Many questioned why he was chosen over the likes of Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed, or Mukesh Kumar — all of whom had shown better form.
As for the first Test, it ended in disappointment for India. Despite five centuries across both innings, the Shubman Gill-led side failed to defend a 371-run target. England chased it down comfortably, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
