India's domestic season for the year 2025-26 is finally underway with the Duleep Trophy. The 62nd edition of India's premier multi-day tournament has commenced at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
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India's red-ball captain Shubman Gill and wicket-keeper Dhruv Jurel have missed the start of the domestic tournament. Both players were named captains of the North Zone and the Central Zone, respectively.
Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel rested for Duleep Trophy match
India's red-ball skipper was named the captain of the North Zone for the Duleep Trophy, but as per reports, a viral illness has forced him out of the game. Gill, who is currently in Mohali, his hometown, suffered a viral illness and is in recovery.
Gill, however, is expected to be fit for the Asia Cup after his blood reports returned normal. The Indian skipper is expected to be back to training at the Centre of Excellence in the next couple of days, as he will begin his preparations for the continental event.
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Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel, who was appointed captain of the Central Zone, also missed out on the game due to an injury. The keeper-batter reportedly complained of a groin niggle, which forced him out of the quarter-final against the North-east zone.
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The East zone side also suffered a setback as their skipper, Abhimanyu Easwaran, also missed out on the game due to a fever. Riyan Parag was appointed as the stand-in skipper in place of Easwaran.
What is the format of the Duleep Trophy?
The Duleep Trophy is being played in a knockout format with six teams battling it out for the ultimate glory. The South and the West Zone have directly qualified for the Semi-finals and are awaiting the winners of the Quarter-finals.
When will the Duleep Trophy semifinals be played?
The Semi-finals will be played from September 4 at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and are expected to feature some of the big Indian stars.
Meanwhile, the Indian T20I squad will travel to the UAE for the Asia Cup in the first week of September as they start their preparations for the T20 World Cup next year.