t20 world cup (ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026Just before the start of ) (February 7), the Indian national cricket team has suffered a huge blow. Fast bowler or rather bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana is out of the tournament due to injury. He suffered this injury on his right knee in the warm-up match played against South Africa, after which the medical team advised him rest. As a result, the team management had to make last-minute changes to the squad.

The Indian team will play its first match on 7 February at the historic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. In such a situation, preparations regarding the bowling combination were in the final stages, but Harshit Rana’s injury changed the equations. According to media reports, the selectors, giving preference to experience, have decided to include Mohammed Siraj as a replacement. The official announcement is expected soon.

Injury changed strategy

Harshit Rana was a key part of the team plans in recent months due to his pace and hit-the-deck length. Given his usefulness in aggressive spells with the new ball and in the death overs, he was kept in the main squad. However, it was not possible to risk him before the start of the tournament after suffering a knee injury. The team management decided to keep him out as a precautionary measure.

Experience increased with Siraj’s return

The return of Mohammed Siraj after the T20 World Cup 2024, i.e. after about 18 months, will provide experience and continuity to the Indian pace attack. Swing in the powerplay and disciplined line-length in the middle overs has been Siraj’s hallmark. His experience in big tournaments and his ability to bowl under pressure make him a valuable option—especially when the opening matches are in home conditions. Apart from Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj is now the only player who will play in all three formats (ODI, Test and T20).

No impact on captaincy and balance

The team looks balanced under the leadership of captain Surya (Suryakumar Yadav). The depth in batting and variety in the spin department remains intact, while in fast bowling, the arrival of Siraj now forms a strong triangle with Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. Also, Hardik Pandya’s pace will support him. The team management is confident that this change will provide stability in the initial matches.

team india squad (Updated Team India Squad)

Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Verma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dubey, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad SirajVarun Chakraborty, Kuldeep Yadav, Akshar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh