Central Zone have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025, which begins on August 28 in Bengaluru. The team features a blend of youth and experience, with several India internationals and domestic stalwarts making the cut. A rising star from Uttar Pradesh will captain the side, while star performers from Vidarbha’s Ranji-winning campaign have been handsomely rewarded with places in the squad.
Dhruv Jurel to lead the Central Zone
Dhruv Jurel, who made headlines with his composure and glove work during India’s recent tour of England, has been named captain of the Central Zone side. Jurel was drafted into the Indian Test team as a replacement for Rishabh Pant and grabbed the opportunity with both hands, playing a crucial role in the fourth and fifth Tests. His sharp wicketkeeping and ability to contribute vital runs in crunch moments have made him a standout performer.
The young stumper’s leadership credentials have also been on display in recent times, and the Duleep Trophy will serve as another platform for him to showcase his potential as a future India captain in the longer format.
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Many prominent stars to feature in the exciting tournament
The Central Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy is stacked with several high-profile names returning to domestic red-ball cricket. Kuldeep Yadav, who didn’t get a game in the England Tests, will be eager to hit the ground running and make a statement ahead of the upcoming home season. His pairing with Vidarbha’s record-breaking spinner Harsh Dubey and the promising Manav Suthar could make life difficult for opposition batters on spin-friendly tracks.
The pace duo of Khaleel Ahmed and Deepak Chahar adds experience and variety to the bowling attack. Chahar, who was recently seen bowling at India’s nets during the fifth Test at The Oval, will look to regain match fitness and rhythm, while Khaleel’s return from county duty strengthens the new-ball options.
On the batting front, Rajat Patidar has been named vice-captain, subject to fitness clearance. The inclusion of consistent run-scorers like Yash Rathod, Danish Malewar, and Sanjeet Desai underlines the depth in the squad. With four players from Ranji Trophy-winning Vidarbha, including coach Usman Ghani at the helm, Central Zone look poised to make a strong title push in the season opener.
Central Zone Squad for Duleep Trophy 2025:
Dhruv Jurel (c, wk), Rajat Patidar (vc – subject to fitness clearance), Aryan Juyal, Danesh Malewar, Sanjeet Desai, Kuldeep Yadav, Aditya Thakre, Deepak Chahar, Saransh Jain, Ayush Pande,y Shubham Sharma, Yash Rathod, Harsh Dubey, Manav Suthar, Khaleel Ahmed
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