Dhruv Jurel Leads Central Zone in Duleep Trophy 2025
India wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel will captain Central Zone in the 2025 Duleep Trophy, which kicks off later this month. The squad was officially announced on Thursday, August 7. With this appointment, Jurel steps into a crucial leadership role in the prestigious domestic red-ball tournament.
Tournament Returns to Traditional Format
This year, the Duleep Trophy returns to its traditional zonal format. A total of four teams will participate, featuring players aiming to break into India’s Test squad. Importantly, the squads have been selected by zonal committees, which included representatives from all the state associations in each zone.
Karun Nair Misses Out Despite Strong Form
Interestingly, one major omission from the squad is Karun Nair. He enjoyed a solid Ranji Trophy season for Vidarbha and had even earned a Test recall. However, despite his impressive form, he was not picked for the Central Zone squad. So far, no official reason has been provided for his exclusion.
Key Dates and Match Details
Central Zone will begin their campaign against North East Zone on August 28. The match is scheduled to be held at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Notably, this tournament serves as a vital platform for domestic performers hoping to secure a place in India’s Test squad, especially with four Tests lined up in October and November.
Kuldeep Yadav to Lead Spin Department
Moving to the bowling unit, Kuldeep Yadav will spearhead Central Zone’s spin attack. He was a part of India’s recent Test squad against England. As a result, his performance in the Duleep Trophy will be closely watched, particularly with upcoming Test series against West Indies and South Africa.
Additionally, Harsh Dubey, who claimed 69 wickets in the 2024–25 domestic season, strengthens the spin lineup. Moreover, Manav Suthar, who impressed in last year’s edition of the tournament, returns as a promising option.
Deepak Chahar and Khaleel Ahmed Boost Pace Attack
In terms of pace, Central Zone will benefit from the return of Deepak Chahar, who missed the final stages of IPL 2025 due to injury. Alongside him, Khaleel Ahmed joins the squad after a successful county stint, adding depth and international experience to the pace battery.
Dhruv Jurel (captain & wicketkeeper), Rajat Patidar, Aryan Juyal, Danish Malewar, Sanchit Desai, Kuldeep Yadav, Aditya Thakare, Deepak Chahar, Saransh Jain, Ayush Pandey, Shubham Sharma, Yash Rathod, Harsh Dubey, Manav Suthar, Khaleel Ahmed.Madhav Kaushik, Yash Thakur, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Mahipal Lomror, Kuldeep Sen, Upendra Yadav.
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