India tour of England 2025: Harshit Rana Released Ahead of Second Test – Here's Why

Indian pace bowler Harshit Rana, who was added to the provisional squad for the first Test, has flown back to India, confirms coach Gambhir.

Harshit Rana, included in the 19-man squad as a standby for the first Test, has been released from the team following India’s heavy defeat in Headingley. He was notably absent when the team boarded the bus to Birmingham for the second Test.

Harshit Rana Released Ahead of 2nd Test, Confirms Gambhir

Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed Rana’s unavailability ahead of the second Test.

"I haven't spoken to the chairman selector; I will speak to the chairman of selectors because there was a bit of a niggle in the group. That is why we wanted him as a backup," Gambhir said following India's defeat.
"But at the moment, everything looks fine, so if everyone is fine, he would have to fly back."

Notably, Rana's inclusion over Anshul Kamboj was not well received by fans, prompting questions about Gambhir’s selection decisions. Rana, part of the 2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, played three Tests in that series and also featured in the Champions Trophy as the third seamer throughout the tournament.

Also read: IND vs ENG 2025: "Could Be 4-0" - Michael Vaughan Taunts Wasim Jaffer After India's Loss At Headingley

Fielding Woes and Selection Calls Loom Ahead of Second Test

India suffered a historic loss in the first Test, becoming the first team to lose a Test match despite scoring five centuries. Gautam Gambhir’s Test coaching record continues to face scrutiny with mounting defeats.

Changes are expected ahead of the second Test. Sai Sudharsan is likely to be dropped, and Arshdeep Singh may replace Prasidh Krishna. Additionally, India is under pressure after a string of dropped catches particularly by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who missed four chances. Improving fielding efficiency and making tactical changes will be key to staging a comeback from Indian team.

The second Test between England and India begins on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Stay tuned for more updates on India’s tour of England 2025.