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Duleep Trophy 2026: Test hopefuls face ultimate test
22 Aug
Summary
- Duleep Trophy 2026-27 begins August 23, marking the start of the Indian domestic cricket season.
- Six zonal teams compete, with strong performances potentially earning players Test call-ups.
- Rajat Patidar and Tilak Varma captain Central Zone and South Zone respectively.
The 63rd Duleep Trophy commences on Sunday, August 23, signaling the start of the 2026-27 Indian domestic cricket season. This edition is particularly significant for India's Test bench strength, as top domestic performers can earn a place in the national squad for upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia.
The tournament retains its six-team zonal format from the previous season, with quarter-finals kicking off the action. East Zone will play North East Zone, and West Zone will face North Zone. Central Zone and South Zone, last year's finalists, have earned direct entry into the semifinals.
Matches for the quarter-finals and semi-finals will be held at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Grounds 1 and 2 in Bengaluru. The final is scheduled to take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Rajat Patidar leads reigning champions Central Zone, while Tilak Varma captains South Zone.
Several players are poised to make an impact. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's red-ball capabilities will be closely watched, especially as vice-captain for East Zone. Key players like Abhimanyu Easwaran, R Smaran, and fringe pacers Arshdeep Singh and Anshul Kamboj are vying for spots in the national team. Veterans Mohammed Shami and Karun Nair also aim to prove their form.
