Thakur, a seasoned Indian all-rounder with significant contributions in both international and domestic cricket, will lead a squad packed with promising talent. His appointment comes as part of the return to the traditional zonal format of the tournament, which kicks off on August 28, 2025.

Squad Highlights

The West Zone squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, featuring notable names such as

• Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shams Mulani

• Emerging wicketkeepers Harvik Desai and Saurabh Nawale

• All-rounder like Tanush Kotian and Dharmendra Jadeja, along with pace bowler Tushar Deshpande and left-arm spinner Arzan Nagwaswala

• Missing from the squad are stalwarts Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, who have been omitted amid speculation of winding down their red ball careers. Both last appeared for India in tests in 2023.

Context & Strategic Considerations

As India transitions back to a zonal setup for Duleep Trophy 2025-26, Thakur's leadership is key for West Zone’s aspirations. Historically, the West Zone is the most successful zone in the competition—with 19 titles to their name.

Despite Thakur's central role, West Zone selectors elected to rest him for parts of the tournament—alongside Ravindra Jadeja—citing workload management concerns, especially given their participation in the ongoing Test series against England.

Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, and Tushar Deshpande have confirmed their availability for the tournament, providing West Zone with a strong top order and spin-bowling options.

What Lies Ahead

The Duleep Trophy marks the start of the 2025-26 Indian domestic season, which officially begins on August 28 and concludes in April 2026. West Zone selectors have a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent through this platform before the Ranji Trophy begins in mid-October.

Thakur, known for impactful performances in both red-ball and limited-overs cricket, will aim to galvanize his side and provide leadership to a youthful squad. Success here could bolster his claims for future higher-level roles, whether in India or even back in the national setup.

Final Notes

• Shardul Thakur, aged 33, brings valuable all-round experience and leadership to the West Zone.

• The squad reflects a shift toward younger prospects like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, while giving seasoned players a reprieve.

• West Zone's pedigree in Duleep Trophy history adds weight to expectations, as they look to regain dominance.

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Shardul Thakur Appointed West Zone Captain for 2025 Duleep Trophy 🇮🇳

Aug 1, 2025 9:37 AM

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