India’s domestic cricket season begins with the Duleep Trophy, starting August 28th in Bengaluru. This year, the tournament returns to its zonal format. West Zone has unveiled a formidable squad, with Shardul Thakur as captain. The team includes prominent players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. The omission of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara highlights a change in the team’s approach.
One key question revolves around why Shreyas Iyer was not chosen as captain. Given Iyer’s experience, many expected him to lead the team. The decision was influenced by scheduling and potential player availability. With the Asia Cup commencing on September 9th, Iyer could be selected for the Indian team. The selectors aimed to avoid appointing a captain who might be absent for the entire Duleep Trophy. As a result, Shardul Thakur, who has a higher chance of being available, was selected.
Notably, it was revealed a day before the squad announcement that Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shivam Dube were keen to participate in the Duleep Trophy. Iyer, who last played a Test in February 2024 against England, is looking to cement his place in the Test side. He has played 14 Tests, scoring one century and five fifties. Sarfaraz Khan, who was also part of the England series this year, is in a similar position – aiming to impress the selectors. Therefore, Shardul Thakur will lead West Zone, while Iyer might be preparing for international duties if he is chosen for India’s Asia Cup team.