Duleep Trophy Returns to Regional Format, National Team Stars Set to Shine
In Indian domestic cricket, the Duleep Trophy has long served as a testing ground for emerging talent. After years of experimentation with formats and teams, the tournament has returned to its traditional region-wise format. This year’s edition, commencing on September 4, 2024, will feature four teams named A, B, C, and D.
The Duleep Trophy remains a significant event in the Indian cricket calendar, despite the rise of India-A as a stepping stone to the national team. A strong performance in the tournament can still make waves, especially as it marks the start of the domestic season. The BCCI’s emphasis on red-ball cricket further underscores the importance of the Duleep Trophy.
The tournament will witness the return of several national team regulars, including Shubman Gill, K.L. Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will also make his red-ball comeback after his horrific car accident in December 2022.
The selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, and the new team management, headed by head coach Gautam Gambhir, will be closely monitoring the Duleep Trophy for potential additions to the national team bench strength. A key focus will be finding a backup opener to Yashasvi and Rohit Sharma. Sarfaraz Khan, among others, will aim to impress as middle-order reinforcements.
With India scheduled to play 10 Tests in less than four months, the Duleep Trophy also provides an opportunity to identify fast-bowling reserves. Akash Deep, Mukesh Kumar, and Vidwath Kaverappa are among the promising pacers who will be vying for attention.
The tournament will kick off with Team A taking on Team B at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, while Team C faces Team D in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. The matches will begin at 9.30 a.m. IST.
