Image Source: NDTV Sports
The 2025 edition of the Duleep Trophy, returning to its traditional zonal format, has witnessed the announcement of the Central Zone squad, featuring an exciting blend of experience and emerging talent. At the helm, India wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has been appointed captain, while Rajat Patidar has been named his deputy. The tournament, beginning August 28 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, offers a crucial platform for players vying for national Test team selection.
Key Highlights: Leadership and Squad Composition
Dhruv Jurel, fresh off impressive performances during India's England tour including standing in for Rishabh Pant in multiple Tests, leads Central Zone as captain and wicketkeeper. Despite no prior senior captaincy experience at this level, Jurel brings strong batting credentials with 1,515 first-class runs at an average of 47.34 and a Test average of 36.42 in five matches.
Rajat Patidar, noted for his consistent Ranji Trophy performances and named vice-captain, is expected to bolster the middle order and provide strategic support on and off the field.
The squad includes right-handed batsmen Aryan Juyal and Danish Malewar, both strong domestic performers—Juyal having notched four centuries including an unbeaten double hundred last season.
The team features notable bowlers, balancing veteran experience and youth. Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin attack after warming the bench in the recent England Test series, accompanied by promising left-arm spinners Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar, both of whom impressed in the most recent domestic seasons.
The pace battery is spearheaded by Deepak Chahar, returning from injury, and Khaleel Ahmed, who recently curtailed his county stint for the tournament. This experienced duo adds balance and variety to the bowling attack.
Zonal Selection and Tournament Context
The Central Zone selection was made by a committee representing all participating state teams within the zone, which comprises Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Railways, and Services in first-class cricket.
Central Zone, having won the Duleep Trophy six times historically, last lifted the trophy in the 2014-15 season and will be keen to reclaim glory this year.
The Duleep Trophy 2025/26 has reverted to the traditional zonal format featuring four teams, serving as an important domestic red-ball tournament that allows players to stake claims for India’s upcoming Test matches against West Indies and South Africa.
Notable Squad Members and Standbys
Alongside Jurel and Patidar, other key squad members include Sanchit Desai, Aditya Thakare, Saransh Jain (off-spinner), Ayush Pandey, Shubham Sharma, and Yash Rathod, the highest run-scorer from the previous Ranji Trophy season.
The squad is supplemented by reserves like Madhav Kaushik, Yash Thakur, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Mahipal Lomror, Kuldeep Sen, and Upendra Yadav, ready to step in as required.
Tournament Expectations and Player Aspirations
Dhruv Jurel’s leadership debut at senior zonal level is eagerly anticipated, with the young wicketkeeper known for his composure and batting consistency seen as a promising captaincy prospect.
Rajat Patidar’s inclusion as vice-captain highlights his growing stature and ability to influence matches both tactically and with the bat.
The squad combines experienced domestic stalwarts with emerging talents, positioning Central Zone as strong contenders in a competitive tournament environment.
Performances during the Duleep Trophy are closely monitored by national selectors, making it a key opportunity for players to showcase readiness for international Test cricket.
Match Schedule and Venue
Central Zone will open their campaign against North East Zone on August 28, 2025, at Bengaluru’s BCCI Centre of Excellence ground. The venue is equipped with top-tier facilities and serves as an ideal setting for high-quality red-ball cricket.
In conclusion, the Central Zone team led by Dhruv Jurel with Rajat Patidar as vice-captain embodies a balanced, talented unit set to compete fiercely at the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The mix of experience and young promise offers Central Zone a solid chance to vie for the trophy while providing crucial exposure for players aiming to break into the Indian Test squad.
Sources: India Today, NDTV Sports
Advertisement
Advertisement
