In the 2025 Duleep Trophy, Shubman Gill will lead the North Zone.
Rising Star Takes Command
Shubman Gill, who is only 26 years old, has already established his position as a regular in the Indian batting lineup in all formats. Known for his elegance, temperament, and consistency, Gill’s leadership appointment for North Zone reflects the selectors’ trust in his growing maturity and tactical acumen. This will be Gill’s first time leading North Zone in the prestigious domestic tournament, and expectations are high.
Speaking to the media after the announcement
Gill said, “It’s an honor to lead North Zone in a historic tournament like the Duleep Trophy. We have a talented team that includes both young and seasoned athletes. I’m looking forward to working together as a unit and aiming for the title.”
Strong Squad Backed by Experience
The North Zone squad is expected to feature a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars. Players like Navdeep Saini, Anmolpreet Singh, and Mayank Yadav are likely to be in the mix, providing Gill with a solid core of match-winners. The inclusion of all-rounders and spinners from the northern states will give the captain flexibility in forming strategies for different pitch conditions.
Duleep Trophy: A Crucial Platform
The Duleep Trophy has long served as a stepping stone for players aspiring to represent India at the highest level. Organized by the BCCI, the tournament sees teams from five zones—North, South, East, West, and Central—compete in red-ball cricket. The 2025 edition will be closely watched, especially with several Indian players aiming to make a comeback into the national Test squad.
With Gill at the helm, North Zone hopes to break the dominance of other regions and claim the silverware, having last won the title in 2017. His familiarity with many of the young talents through India A tours and the national setup will be crucial in fostering a cohesive team environment.
Eye on the Future
Gill’s leadership stint in the Duleep Trophy could also serve as a litmus test for future roles in the Indian team. With Rohit Sharma’s tenure expected to wind down in the next couple of years, the Indian management is believed to be exploring young leaders who can carry the baton forward. A successful campaign as North Zone captain could significantly bolster Gill's credentials.
The tournament is scheduled to begin on August 22, 2025, with North Zone set to play their opening fixture against Central Zone in Mohali.