Indian Pacer Harshit Rana Released from Test Squad Ahead of Second England Clash OR India Release Fast Bowler Rana Before Second Test Against England in Birmingham OR Rana Released: India Adjust Squad Ahead of Crucial Second Test Against England

India take on England (AP Photo)

Leeds: Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana has been released from the Test squad prior to the second match of the ongoing five-Test series against England.

The young pacer, initially called up as a precautionary measure, was not seen boarding the team bus to Birmingham alongside his teammates. The Indian squad departed from Leeds around 11:30 am local time and was expected to reach Birmingham in approximately three hours.

The team is scheduled to rest for two days before resuming training in preparation for the second Test. Their goal is to level the series and recover from the setback at Headingley.

Gautam Gambhir had previously commented on Rana's inclusion after India’s defeat in the first Test, stating, "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."

He further added, “But at the moment, everything looks fine, so if everyone is fine, he would have to fly back.”

India's defeat at Headingley, despite a strong batting performance of 835 runs and five individual centuries, has drawn attention due to its unique circumstances. Notably, it marked the first instance in Test history where a team lost despite achieving five centuries in a single match.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant (with two centuries) showcased strong batting performances. However, England successfully chased down a target of 371, securing a five-wicket victory on the final day.

Ben Duckett's aggressive 149 played a pivotal role in the record-breaking chase, complemented by significant contributions from Crawley and Root. The cumulative 1673 runs scored by both teams represent the highest total ever recorded in a Test match between India and England.

India is set to face England in the second Test at Edgbaston on July 2.