Harshit Rana has emerged as a last-minute addition to India's Test squad for the highly anticipated series against England. While initial reports suggested he was included as an official member, it appears his role is currently as an unofficial backup, providing additional resources for the team. The five-match Test series is set to commence on June 20th in Leeds.
The decision to include Rana comes amidst concerns about potential niggles within the existing squad. The team management is taking a cautious approach, ensuring they have adequate cover in the fast-bowling department. As it stands, the primary pace attack comprises Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh. Should Rana be officially added to the squad, he would become the sixth seamer in contention.
Rana's inclusion provides a promising young talent with an invaluable opportunity to be around the Test environment, learn from senior players, and potentially make his mark on the international stage.
The 23-year-old Rana, hailing from Delhi, has been making waves in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He represents Delhi in domestic cricket and plays for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL. Rana is a right-arm medium-fast bowler and a right-handed batsman. He can clock over 140 kmph and with his height, he can be a nightmare for the batters.
In his first-class career, Rana has played 13 matches and taken 48 wickets at an average of 27.79, including two five-wicket hauls. He has also proven his mettle with the bat, scoring 492 runs at an average of 32.80, including a century and two half-centuries.
Rana made his international debut in the Perth Test against Australia in November 2024, picking up four wickets in the match. He has also represented India in both T20Is and ODIs.
The India squad already boasts a blend of experience and fresh talent. Shubman Gill will captain the side, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy. The batting lineup includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, and Karun Nair, who makes a comeback to the Test side. Ravindra Jadeja leads the spin department, while the pace attack is spearheaded by Bumrah and Siraj.
India aims to secure their first Test series victory in England since 2007. This series also marks India's first assignment in the 2025-2027 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, adding further significance to the tour.
