Harshit Rana, a young cricketer who has been retained in England, is currently serving as an unofficial member of the Indian squad. A senior official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Rana is staying with the team as a backup for some players who are dealing with minor injuries. However, he has not been officially included in the squad yet.

The specific players who are nursing injuries have not been revealed, but it has been clarified that Rana, who has played in multiple formats for India, is present as a contingency plan. He traveled with the team to Leeds, where the first Test will be held, from London on Tuesday.

It is important to note that Rana is not considered an official squad member at this point, according to the BCCI official.

Indian Squad Composition

In the 18-member squad led by Shubman Gill, there are several specialist fast bowlers and pace-bowling all-rounders. Rana's inclusion as a backup provides additional depth to the team's resources.

Rana recently featured in matches for India A against England Lions and was part of an intra-squad game in Beckenham. While other members of the team have returned home, Rana's presence in England continues.

Gautam Gambhir's Return

Head coach Gautam Gambhir, who had to briefly leave the UK for personal reasons, is expected to rejoin the squad soon. Despite his absence, Gambhir is set to link up with the team ahead of the Test series opener in Leeds.

The first Test match between England and India, known as the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, is scheduled to commence on Friday in Leeds. Subsequent matches will be held at different venues across England throughout July.