Duleep Trophy 2025: Shardul Thakur to Captain West Zone; Rahane, Pujara Excluded

The Duleep Trophy is set to herald the beginning of India's domestic cricket season this year, with the tournament scheduled to commence on August 28 in Bengaluru. Notably, the competition will return to its traditional zonal format, featuring teams representing various regions across India.

West Zone has revealed its squad for the upcoming tournament, with Shardul Thakur named captain. The team includes several prominent Indian cricketers, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. However, a significant development sees the exclusion of two seasoned campaigners, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara.

Shardul Thakur has been a standout performer for Mumbai in recent Ranji Trophy campaigns, contributing significantly both with the ball and as a resourceful lower-order batsman. He has frequently delivered crucial runs alongside teammates like Tanush Kotian and Shams Mulani. The Indian Express reports that Shreyas Iyer was initially considered for the captaincy, but selectors ultimately opted for Thakur, anticipating Iyer's potential selection for the Asia Cup, which starts on September 9.

Just a day prior, reports indicated that Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shivam had confirmed their availability for the Duleep Trophy. Shreyas Iyer has represented India in 14 Test matches, notching one century and five half-centuries, though his last Test appearance was in February 2024 against England. Sarfaraz Khan also participated in that particular series but has not been part of the Test squad since. The Duleep Trophy now offers him another prime opportunity to exhibit his talent.

The West Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy is as follows: