Harshit Rana's Future in England: What Lies Ahead?

Harshit Rana, the promising fast bowler from India A, is set to remain in England while his teammates return home. This decision raises questions about his future with the senior team, especially after a modest performance in his only official game. Despite his impressive IPL 2024 season, where he debuted for India, Rana was not selected for the upcoming Test series against England. As the Indian team prepares to arrive in Leeds for the first Test, the cricket community is left wondering about Rana's next steps and potential call-up to the senior squad.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 17, 2025, 07:45 IST

Preparations for the Upcoming Test Series

The recent intra-squad match involving the Indian cricket team in England served as a preparatory exercise ahead of the forthcoming Test series against England. While primarily aimed at gearing up the senior squad under the leadership of Shubman Gill, it also provided an opportunity for players from India A to showcase their talents.

Harshit Rana's Extended Stay in England

According to reports from a sports outlet, fast bowler Harshit Rana from India A will not return to India with his teammates on June 17. Instead, he will remain in England for an unspecified duration. The reasons for his extended stay remain unclear, and while many Indian players have secured contracts with County clubs, Rana's situation appears to be unique. The report did not clarify whether this indicates a potential call-up to the senior Test squad.

Rana's Performance So Far

In his sole official appearance for India A, Rana's performance was modest, taking one wicket for 99 runs and contributing 16 runs with the bat. Details regarding his performance in the intra-squad match have not been disclosed, as the game was played without significant media attention.

Success Following IPL 2024

The young cricketer from Delhi made a notable impact during IPL 2024 while playing for Kolkata Knight Riders. Under Gautam Gambhir's mentorship, Rana's impressive performances led to his debut for India during the Test series in Perth against Australia, where he took four wickets across two matches.

Not Selected for the England Tour

Despite his previous successes, Rana was not included in the initial squad for the Test series in England. The selection committee opted for a pace attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna.

Indian Team's Arrival in Leeds

The Indian cricket team is scheduled to arrive in Leeds on June 17 ahead of the first Test, which is set to commence on June 20. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, who had briefly returned to India for personal matters, is expected to rejoin the team at that time.