Duleep Trophy 2025: Shardul Thakur To Lead West Zone; Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan Bolster Squad Strength

Duleep Trophy 2025: Shardul Thakur To Lead West Zone; Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan Bolster Squad Strength

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The prestigious Duleep Trophy — India’s premier domestic red-ball tournament — is all set to return with renewed intensity, and this time, West Zone enters the competition with a power-packed squad. In a strategic move, Shardul Thakur has been named the captain, while Shreyas Iyer and Sarfaraz Khan, two of India’s most talked-about middle-order batters, have been included in the final squad.

The selection reflects a strong intent from the West Zone selectors — to reclaim dominance in the inter-zonal competition with a blend of international experience and domestic consistency.

Shardul Thakur: Leading from the Front

Known for his spirited performances for Team India and his uncanny knack of striking with the ball at crucial moments, Shardul Thakur will lead the West Zone side this season. With years of experience across formats and a reputation for being a gritty performer, Thakur’s appointment is seen as a decision aimed at infusing aggression and tactical sharpness into the squad.

His leadership will also be crucial in managing the dynamics of a star-studded dressing room and guiding young players under high-pressure conditions.

Shreyas Iyer Returns to Red-Ball Arena

After a period of recovery and limited red-ball outings, Shreyas Iyer’s inclusion comes as a major boost for West Zone. The stylish right-hander, known for his calm temperament and fluent strokeplay, is eyeing a strong domestic season to reassert his credentials for a Test recall.

Sources close to the team suggest that Iyer is fully fit and eager to use the Duleep Trophy as a platform to prove his readiness for longer formats.

Sarfaraz Khan: The Run Machine Joins In

Another highlight of the squad is Sarfaraz Khan, who continues to dominate the domestic circuit with his sheer consistency. Despite repeatedly knocking on the doors of national selectors, the Mumbai batter hasn’t received a long rope at the international level. However, his inclusion in the West Zone team alongside Iyer and Thakur makes this one of the most formidable batting units in the tournament.

Sarfaraz, with multiple hundreds in Ranji and India A matches, is expected to anchor the innings and play the long game — something he’s become known for.

Other Notable Names in the Squad

Apart from the big three, West Zone boasts an exciting mix of experience and youth. The squad includes:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal – If available, the young left-hander could be a game-changer at the top.
• Prithvi Shaw – Looking to make a strong comeback with aggressive starts.
• Tushar Deshpande – A fiery pace option to partner with Thakur.
• Dharmendrasinh Jadeja – Left-arm spin variety to control the middle overs.

The side looks well-rounded with plenty of depth in both departments, ready to take on any opposition with confidence.

Why Duleep Trophy Matters More Than Ever

In an era dominated by white-ball cricket and T20 leagues, the Duleep Trophy remains a vital platform for red-ball aspirants. With the BCCI’s recent emphasis on rewarding domestic performances for national selection, this tournament is more than just a zonal contest — it’s a stepping stone to Team India.

Performers in the Duleep Trophy have often made immediate transitions to India A or senior national sides. With the presence of selectors and team management keeping a close eye, players like Sarfaraz and Iyer will be under the scanner for potential Test berths.

What’s Next for West Zone?

With match fixtures set to begin soon, all eyes will be on how West Zone performs under Shardul Thakur’s captaincy. Can the trio of Thakur, Iyer, and Sarfaraz live up to the hype? Will the youngsters rise to the occasion?

One thing is certain — this edition of the Duleep Trophy promises high-quality cricket, individual comebacks, and fierce regional pride.

West Zone is loaded and ready. The race for red-ball supremacy begins now.