Challenges for Indian Bowlers Ahead of Afghanistan and UK Tours
Injury Concerns for Key Indian Bowlers
Sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed on Friday that two of the country's leading fast bowlers, Aakashdeep and Harshit Rana, are unlikely to be fit for the upcoming home series against Afghanistan and the white-ball tour of the UK. Both players require more time to regain full match fitness.
Current Recovery Status
Aakashdeep is currently recovering from a back injury, while Rana recently underwent knee surgery due to a ligament tear that occurred just days before the T20 World Cup in India. Both players are contracted with Kolkata Knight Riders but will not participate in the 2026 Indian Premier League.
Long Road to Recovery
A BCCI source, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that while Aakashdeep and Harshit's rehabilitation is progressing well, it will take considerable time before they receive clearance to play. There is little chance they will be fit for the Afghanistan and UK tours, as they are still engaged in strength-building exercises. Following this, they will progress to jogging, brisk walking, sprinting, and practicing skills related to the 'Return to Play' protocol.
Rana's Importance in Team Plans
Aakashdeep is viewed as a potential player primarily for red-ball cricket, whereas Rana is a crucial component of the team's plans for ODI and T20 formats. In 2025, Harshit emerged as India's most successful ODI bowler, taking 26 wickets in 14 matches.
Aakashdeep's Longer Recovery Timeline
Aakashdeep's most memorable moment came last year during the Anderson-Tendulkar series against England, where he took 12 wickets in a match in Birmingham. Those familiar with the situation believe that Aakashdeep may take longer than Harshit to return to competitive cricket, with a potential comeback opportunity in August during the Dilip Trophy, which marks the start of the senior men's domestic season.
Positive News for Team India Amid IPL
The ICC has released its annual update of the Test rankings, which shows that the Indian team has gained one position. In contrast, England and Sri Lanka have dropped in the rankings, while the Pakistani team has made a one-place leap.