Birmingham: The Indian cricket team management has decided to release young fast bowler Harshit Rana, who was initially included as a backup for the first Test against England in Leeds. This decision was made public on Wednesday.

Rana, who has participated in two Test matches in Australia with limited success, was part of the India A team but struggled to make an impression during the unofficial Test against the England Lions in Canterbury, where he conceded 99 runs while taking just one wicket in 27 overs.

According to a source from the BCCI, "Harshit Rana has been released from the squad and did not travel with the Indian team to Birmingham for the second Test set to begin on July 4."

At just 23 years old, Rana is a promising talent under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir. He gained attention for his impressive off-cutter that dismissed Travis Head during a match in Perth.

However, it has become clear that he is still developing and not yet prepared for the demands of high-level red-ball cricket.

It was surprising that Rana was chosen as a backup over more experienced bowlers like Mukesh Kumar or Anshul Kamboj, especially considering that his bowling style may not be well-suited for the current conditions.

Gambhir commented on Rana's situation, stating, "I will discuss with the chairman of selectors. He was held back due to some minor injuries... everything is fine. I will have a conversation, and we will make a decision then," following India's five-wicket loss in the opening Test.