India fast bowler Harshit Rana has come under the spotlight after suffering a hamstring injury during the T20I series against England. The injury came soon after his return to international cricket following knee surgery. According to reports, Rana had returned to the Indian team carrying extra weight, which may have played a role in his latest setback.
The 24-year-old was part of India’s T20I squads against Ireland and England. He played two matches against Ireland and three against England before injuring his hamstring. The injury forced him to miss the following three-match ODI series, where he was expected to be an important member of the team.
Report says excess weight may have increased injury risk
The latest development has reportedly worried the Indian team management and selectors. Questions have been raised about Rana’s fitness after reports claimed he was found to be overweight when he rejoined the national squad.
His rehabilitation after knee surgery was completed at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. However, reports suggest that his conditioning and weight management may not have been ideal during his recovery period.
“Harshit is a very important member of this team going into the 2027 World Cup. He is being looked at as a potential number eight batter along with his 140 click average speed. But he has to be mindful about his fitness routine,” a BCCI source said as quoted by NDTV Sports.
“Recently, when he joined the team he was found to be overweight. For someone, who bowls fast, if that player is found to be overweight then obviously the load on the body can lead to hamstring tear,” the source added.
Fast bowlers place heavy stress on their bodies during every spell. Carrying extra weight can increase the pressure on muscles, especially the hamstrings, making injuries more likely. Rana had already worked hard to recover from knee surgery, but this latest setback has once again raised concerns about his long-term fitness as India prepares for major tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup.
