Jurel Captains Central Zone Squad with Kuldeep, Chahar for Duleep Trophy

The 2025-26 Duleep Trophy has returned to its traditional zonal format, with the Central Zone squad featuring a strong mix of international players and domestic talent. Dhruv Jurel, who impressed during India's England tour, has been named captain, with Rajat Patidar as his deputy. The team’s spin attack will be led by Kuldeep Yadav, returning to competitive cricket after not playing in the recent England Tests, alongside record-breaking Ranji Trophy left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar. The pace attack includes Deepak Chahar, making a comeback after an IPL injury, and Khaleel Ahmed, who recently ended his county stint early for personal reasons. The batting lineup is bolstered by Ranji Trophy top scorer Yash Rathod and Vidarbha’s Danish Malewar, with coaching provided by Vidarbha’s Ranji-winning coach Usman Ghani. Central Zone will open their campaign against North East Zone on August 28 in Bengaluru.