Harshit Rana ruled out as Yash Thakur named replacement for Afg T20Is, Asian Games

🩰 Namaste cricket family! Allow me to share some news that moves like an unexpected twist in a dance drama...

Harshit Rana Sidelined—Yash Thakur Steps In for Afghanistan T20Is & Asian Games

Our beloved pace battery takes an unexpected dip. Fast bowler Harshit Rana has been ruled out of both the Afghanistan T20I series and the 2026 Asian Games after suffering another injury setback. 💔

Despite progressing well during his rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Rana strained his rectus femoris while bowling during a match simulation on Sept 7. The Selection Committee quickly confirmed his exclusion.

This marks yet another hurdle in Rana's injury-plagued journey. He'd already battled a hamstring injury vs England at Trent Bridge, a knee issue during the WC warmup vs South Africa (missing the T20 World Cup), and even underwent surgery—sitting out the 2026 IPL with KKR.

Yash Thakur Gets His Chance

The Vidarbha pacer, Yash Thakur, has been drafted as replacement for both squads. The 27-year-old impressed on his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in July—2 matches, 4 wickets—and boasts a stellar domestic record: 81 wickets in 50 Syed Mushtaq Ali matches at an economy of just 7.04. 🎯

Key Dates to Remember:

- T20Is: Sept 13, 15 & 17 (all in Delhi)

- Asian Games: Team departs Delhi Sept 18

Iyer continues as captain with Tilak Varma as vice-captain. Thakur slots right into both squads alongside Bumrah, Arshdeep, and the rest!

May his fitness stay with him this time! 🙏 #IndiaVsAfghanistan

Source: Times of India