Concerns have emerged over the fitness of young Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana after he was seen walking with the help of crutches during the BCCI Naman Awards ceremony. A video from the event has gone viral on social media, sparking worries among fans just days before the start of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Injury setback before the T20 World Cup

The pacer, who represents Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, reportedly suffered a knee injury during a warm-up match against South Africa national cricket team ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

The injury forced him out of India’s T20 World Cup squad, where he was replaced by fellow fast bowler Mohammed Siraj. Following the setback, Rana underwent knee surgery in Mumbai on February 9, 2026. Medical reports suggested that his recovery could take around two to three months.

Seen walking with crutches at awards ceremony

Despite the injury, Rana attended the Naman Awards ceremony held on March 15, 2026. However, he was seen walking with the assistance of crutches, and the viral clip circulating online shows him struggling to move comfortably.

At the ceremony, Rana was honoured with the Best International Debut (Men) award. Due to his condition, he could not walk up to the stage, and the award was personally presented to him by Arun Dhumal, the chairman of the IPL.

Major blow for Kolkata Knight Riders

With the IPL 2026 season set to begin on March 28, Rana’s recovery timeline makes it unlikely that he will regain match fitness in time. His absence would be a significant setback for Kolkata Knight Riders, where he has been one of the team’s key death-over bowlers.

Rana played an important role in the franchise’s triumph in the Indian Premier League 2024 season, delivering crucial performances with the ball during high-pressure moments.