Harshit Rana, the young Indian fast bowler, is currently with the Indian Test squad in England, not as an official member, but as an "unofficial cover." This arrangement has been made due to minor fitness concerns surrounding some of the team's key pacers. While the BCCI has not formally inducted Rana into the main squad, he has traveled with the team from London to Headingley, and is expected to remain with the contingent for the time being.

According to reports, Rana, who was part of the India A squad, was asked to stay back in England as a precautionary measure. A senior BCCI official confirmed that this decision was made in light of the niggles that a few players are currently nursing. However, the names of these players have not been disclosed.

This development comes even though Rana was initially overlooked by the selectors for the main squad for the ongoing five-Test series against England. He was, however, a part of the India A setup and participated in the unofficial Tests against the England Lions, including an intra-squad match.

The decision to keep Rana as a backup option highlights the embarrassment of riches India currently possesses in the fast-bowling department. The main squad already includes a formidable lineup of pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh. Additionally, seam-bowling all-rounders like Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy further bolster the options available to the team management.

Given the intensity and duration of a five-Test series, coupled with the unpredictable conditions in England, retaining a reserve pacer like Rana makes strategic sense. It provides the team with adequate cover in case of any unforeseen injuries or fitness issues to the frontline bowlers.

Rana's inclusion as a backup has sparked some debate, especially considering the performances of other players like Anshul Kamboj. While Rana's retention could be justified, questions have been raised as to why players with superior form are being overlooked.

Harshit Rana rose to prominence during the IPL 2024 season, where he emerged as a key bowler for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). His impressive performances helped KKR secure their first title in a decade. His success in the IPL led to a national call-up, and he has since represented India in all three formats of the game. He made his Test debut during India's tour of Australia and has played in two Test matches, five ODIs, and one T20I.

Earlier in his career, Rana faced challenges with injuries and fitness. He underwent a significant transformation, shedding 17 kilograms to revitalize his career. This transformation was driven by a desire to succeed at the highest level and was supported by his father, who encouraged him every step of the way.