Harshit Rana Cleared for Return to India Squad Ahead of Final ODI

Harshit Rana has been cleared to return to the India cricket squad after recovering from his injury, as confirmed by assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. While he is included for the final ODI against Afghanistan, his participation in the match remains uncertain. The focus is on ensuring Rana's physical readiness for a busy schedule ahead. Additionally, Doeschate expressed confidence in spinner Kuldeep Yadav's abilities despite recent inconsistencies. The final ODI is set to take place in Chennai, with India already leading the series 2-0.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 23:02 IST

Harshit Rana Cleared for Return

India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, announced that fast bowler Harshit Rana has successfully recovered from his injury after completing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Rana has been included in the squad for the third and final One-Day International against Afghanistan, scheduled for Saturday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. However, Doeschate indicated that Rana is unlikely to participate in this match.

Doeschate emphasized the importance of gradually reintegrating Rana into the team and ensuring he is physically prepared for a demanding schedule over the next five to six weeks, with mental readiness to be addressed later.

"He has done significant work at the NCA and received clearance. He joined us today and appears fully fit. While I expect him to have a practice run today, I don't foresee him playing tomorrow. The goal is to have him around the team again, and he seems upbeat without any signs of lingering issues from his injury," Doeschate shared with reporters.

"We have a substantial workload ahead in the coming weeks, so our priority is to ensure he is in peak physical condition, and we will address the mental aspect afterward," he added.

Support for Kuldeep Yadav

Rana is also set to participate in the upcoming T20I series in Ireland and England, where Shreyas Iyer will captain the T20I team. Doeschate expressed his support for spinner Kuldeep Yadav, noting that his recent performances have been commendable and not a concern. He acknowledged that Yadav has not had consistent playing time, which can disrupt his rhythm, but the team values his aggressive bowling style and considers him a vital "risk" or mystery spin option based on the conditions.

"The wickets can be challenging, but I thought he bowled exceptionally well recently. He hasn't played a continuous series of matches for some time, even in Test cricket. We have no significant concerns about him. We prefer to utilize a risk spinner or a mystery spinner, depending on the situation," he remarked.

India will face Afghanistan in the final ODI in Chennai on Saturday, already leading the series 2-0.