Indian Cricket Team Faces Fitness Concerns Ahead of Afghanistan Series

As the Indian cricket team prepares for its upcoming series against Afghanistan, concerns arise regarding the fitness of key fast bowlers Akash Deep and Harshit Rana. Both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation due to injuries, making their participation in the series unlikely. Akash Deep, who has been an integral part of the Test squad, may return in August, while Harshit’s timeline remains uncertain. The team is set to play a Test match starting June 6, followed by a three-match ODI series. The absence of these bowlers could impact the team's performance in the upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 14:43 IST

Upcoming Series Against Afghanistan

The Indian cricket team is set to play its next international series at the beginning of June, facing Afghanistan in both Test and ODI formats at home. Prior to this, there is significant concern regarding the fitness of the players, particularly fast bowlers Akash Deep and Harshit Rana, who are likely to miss out.

Rehabilitation Process for Akash Deep and Harshit Rana

Both Akash Deep and Harshit Rana have been sidelined due to injuries for an extended period. Akash is dealing with a back injury, while Harshit has been ruled out due to a knee injury just before the start of the T20 World Cup 2026. According to a source from the BCCI, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, both bowlers are currently undergoing rehabilitation. They will require more time to regain match fitness, making their participation in the Test against Afghanistan and the subsequent tour of England and Ireland unlikely. They have recently begun exercises, which will progress to jogging, running, sprinting, and eventually practice related to returning to play.

Possible Return for Akash Deep in August

Akash Deep, who has been a crucial part of the Indian Test squad over the past year, is expected to make his return to the field in August during the Duleep Trophy. However, the timeline for Harshit Rana's return remains uncertain. The absence of both bowlers will be felt by the Indian team in the upcoming series. The Test series against Afghanistan is scheduled to start on June 6, followed by a three-match ODI series from June 14 to 20. After this, the team will depart for tours to Ireland and England.