Fast bowler Harshit Rana will rejoin the national squad after recovering from successful knee surgery, providing a timely boost to India ahead of the final ODI against Afghans. The young paceman had been out for several months and was rehabilitated and is now also available for international cricket.

The return is a huge milestone in Rana’s recovery process. The 24-year-old picked up a knee injury in a warm-up game earlier this year, an injury that needed surgery eventually which kept him out of action for most part of his cricketing career. That came as a big loss for the player and also to the Indian team, since he had established himself as one of the fastest fast-bowling prospects in the country after impressing in domestic circuit and IPL.

For the next several months, Rana was under treatment and rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence after which he was finally given a clean chit to return. His progress was monitored by the medical staff and team management thoroughly before allowing him to feature in the ODI setup. The addition of him is likely to lend depth and variety to India’s pace bowling as they continue the process of building towards future international commitments.

Selectors were happy with his fitness levels and bowling workload, and therefore decided to include Rana in the squad. Though it is uncertain if he can be a part of the playing XI or not, his presence gives the team management one more option as a fast-bowler. The one-day will give the coaching staff a chance to see his test match readiness at the highest level after a long layoff as well.

Races in recent years have put Rana on everybody’s radar. Recognised for his pace, bounce and the knack of producing vital breakthroughs, he has been a sought after talent in Indian cricket. India are managing workloads and hoarding fast bowlers with other competitions on the horizon, which makes his return at this stage critical.

For Rana, returning to the national team is a big personal triumph as he was away from competitive cricket for several months of hard work. The youngster will now look to get his rhythm back, regain confidence and find a way back into India’s schemes. He is now fully recovered, cleared of any fitness concerns and has another chance to shine on the international stage.