While the Indian cricket team registered a dominant 30-run victory over South Africa in their unofficial T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the win was overshadowed by a significant injury concern. Magicwin Young pace sensation Harshit Rana limped off the field on Wednesday evening, leaving the defending champions sweating over his fitness just days before the tournament opener.

The Incident: Harshit Rana’s Knee Concern

Defending a massive total of 240, India brought Harshit Rana into the attack to maintain the pressure. However, the 24-year-old Delhi pacer appeared in visible discomfort almost immediately.

Rana struggled with his rhythm, pulling out of his delivery stride twice within a single over. After conceding 16 runs in that over, he was seen clutching his knee and hobbling off the field. He took no further part in the match, and an official update from the BCCI is currently awaited.

Deepening Injury Woes

This scare comes at a sensitive time for the Indian camp. The team is already monitoring all-rounder Washington Sundar, who has been nursing an injury sustained during the ODI series against New Zealand and has yet to fully join the World Cup squad.

The silver lining in the match was the return of Tilak Varma. Returning from a month-long layoff, Varma looked sharp, smashing 45 off just 19 balls and even chipping in with an economical over of bowling.

Match Highlights: Batting Powerhouse

Despite the injury cloud, India's batting looked formidable:

  • Ishan Kishan: Hammered a blistering 53 off 20 balls (including 7 sixes) before retiring out.

  • Tilak Varma: Announced his comeback with a rapid 45.

  • Hardik Pandya: Provided the finishing touch with a fiery 30 off 10 deliveries.

  • Total: India posted 240/6 in their 20 overs.

In response, South Africa reached 210/7. Abhishek Sharma was the pick of the Indian bowlers with 2/32, while Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel provided tight spells to ensure a comfortable win.

What it Means for India

With the World Cup opener against the USA scheduled for February 7 in Mumbai, the management faces a selection headache. While Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the pace attack, Rana's role as a flexible, high-pace option is crucial for the squad's depth.

If Rana is ruled out, India might have to rely more heavily on its all-rounders, or potentially look at injury replacements from the reserves. For now, fans and the team management alike will be holding their breath for the medical report on Rana’s knee.