Overview
- Sources linked to the BCCI told PTI the fast bowlers are not expected to be match fit for the Afghanistan home series or the limited-overs trip to England.
- Akash Deep is in rehab for a lower-back stress injury that already cost him the IPL 2026 season with Kolkata Knight Riders.
- Harshit Rana tore a knee ligament before the T20 World Cup, underwent surgery in February, and remains in the recovery phase.
- Officials cited the Duleep Trophy in late August to mid September as the first competitive window for both to return, with Akash possibly needing more time.
- Team planning is affected because Rana is a key ODI and T20I option, while Akash is tracked primarily for red-ball duties.