NZ v IND 2026: Harshit Rana unlikely for New Zealand tour as rehab delayed; Hardik Pandya develops right calf issue- Report

Harshit Rana and Hardik Pandya have been out of commission for a long time due to injuries.

Indian pacer Harshit Rana is unlikely to travel with the Men in Blue side to New Zealand later this year. Rana had missed the Afghanistan T20Is and the Asian Games 2026 due to injury, and his progress toward full fitness had hit a roadblock.

India will tour New Zealand for 2 Tests, 5 ODIs, and 5 T20Is from October 22 to December 1. Rana has not played for India or any competitive cricket since injuring his knee in a warm-up game for the T20 World Cup 2026. He underwent knee surgery and missed the IPL 2026 as well.

Now Dainik Jagran has reported that Rana is set to miss the New Zealand series due to a delay in his rehabilitation process. Harshit Rana complained of left quadriceps pain during a match simulation on September 7, ahead of the Afghanistan series in New Delhi.

He had an MRI, which showed a low-grade strain in both thighs. Doctors recommended restricted loading for three weeks before he gradually returns to play. The goal was to begin bowling this week and gradually increase his workload based on his tolerance, but he presently has a fever, sore throat, and cold.

He has been urged to heal completely before continuing his therapy and other activities, and due to the delayed start, he is unlikely to travel to New Zealand. He is expected to return to competitive cricket next month in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Delhi.

The same publication also updated on Hardik Pandya’s journey to full fitness. The all-rounder has been out of commission since IPL 2026, when he developed back spasms. He was supposed to return for Afghanistan ODIs but suffered a quadriceps injury. Then he was included in India. He was selected for a one-day side to play three games against Australia A, but he suffered another injury setback.

Dainik Jagran has reported that Pandya has developed discomfort in his right calf and is unlikely to make a comeback in the near future. Hardik is required to have bisphosphonate treatment and vitamin D supplements for six to eight weeks, and he will start his rehabilitation with low-load exercises and will then progress to running and cricket training and play matches.

It is uncertain when Hardik Pandya will return to action, as he is a crucial player for India in their preparations for the ICC World Cup 2027.

(Dainik Jagran report)