Siraj Replaces Injured Harshit in T20 World Cup, Kicks Off Today
(Patiala 7th February – Navneet Bansal News Room) India will begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign today with their opening match against the USA at 6:00 PM. The Indian team has looked in formidable form during the warm-up fixtures, registering comprehensive victories and displaying strong all-round performances.
However, India suffered a setback ahead of the tournament when young fast bowler Harshit Rana sustained a right knee injury during the warm-up match against South Africa on 4 February. Following the injury the Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has approved the inclusion of experienced pacer Mohammad Siraj as Rana’s replacement in the Indian squad.
Siraj who has represented India in 45 Tests, 50 ODIs and 16 T20 Internationals, brings valuable experience to the side. As per tournament regulations any replacement player must receive clearance from the Event Technical Committee before being officially added to the squad.
The Event Technical Committee for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 comprises Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager – Cricket) Gaurav Saxena (IBC Representative), Hemang Amin (Host Representative) and Shaun Pollok (Independent Representative).
India have lifted the T20 World Cup title twice – in 2007 and 2024 – and finished runners-up in 2014. Notably, India won the 2024 edition undefeated, becoming the first team in tournament history to achieve this feat. Let us wish Team India a comprehensive victory and a stylish start to the World Cup campaign.
