Reigning Duleep Trophy champions Central Zone have named their squad for the 2026-27 edition, re-appointing Rajat Patidar as captain following his successful championship-winning campaign last season. Joining him in the leadership group is Indian international Rinku Singh, who has been named vice-captain as the team prepares to launch its title defense later this month.
Central Zone's squad for Duleep Trophy announced, Rajat Patidar to lead
The selection highlights include Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Saransh Jain, who comes into the squad fresh off receiving his first Test call-up for India's tour of Sri Lanka. By virtue of winning the title last year, Central Zone has earned a direct bye into the semi-finals, with their campaign scheduled to kick off on August 30 at Bengaluru's BCCI Centre of Excellence.
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Patidar remains the centerpiece of the side after a stellar tournament last year. The right-handed batsman not only led Central Zone to the trophy but also ended as the top run-getter of the competition with 382 runs, capped off by a decisive, match-winning century in the final against South Zone.
Rinku Singh to be Rajat Patidar's deputy
Central Zone's middle order receives a major boost with the appointment of Rinku Singh as vice-captain. He is joined in the squad by Vidarbha's breakout opener Aman Mokhade, whose staggering 760-run Ranji Trophy tally paved the way for a recent India A call-up and a productive tour in Sri Lanka's red-ball series.
The reigning champions have ensured extensive coverage behind the stumps and in the middle order, retaining Yash Rathod while calling up both Aryan Juyal and Kunal Singh Rathod to handle wicketkeeping duties. Completing the balance of the side is Saransh Jain, whose recent maiden call-up to the national Test squad underscores his status as a key figure. His ability to impact games with both his off-break bowling and lower-order batting gives Central Zone a potent multi-dimensional asset.
Central Zone’s seam attack features a familiar partnership, led by Vidarbha teammates Yash Thakur and Nachiket Bhute, supported by the all-round pace capability of Arshad Khan. The spin department will be spearheaded by left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey, whose strong domestic performances and recent debut for the senior national side make him a vital asset in conditions favoring turn.
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The selection committee has also maintained its faith in wrist-spinner Zeeshan Ansari as he rebuilds his red-ball career. Ansari’s recent trajectory includes a role in India’s Test setup as a net bowler ahead of the Afghanistan fixture, followed by an international stint with India A in Sri Lanka during their first-class series.
With a well-rounded roster that seamlessly blends high-level experience with emerging talent, the defending champions look poised to mount a formidable title defense under Patidar’s captaincy.
Central Zone squad for Duleep Trophy:
Rajat Patidar (C), Rinku Singh (VC), Aryan Juyal (wicketkeeper), Saransh Jain, Aman Mokhade, Kunal Chandela, Zeeshan Ansari, Aryan Pandey, Arshad Khan, Ayush Pandey, Yash Rathod, Harsh Dubey, Kunal Singh Rathod (wk), Yash Thakur and Nachiket Bhute.
Reserve players: Amandeep Khare, Mayank Mishra, Saurabh Rawat, Bhargav Merai, Kunal Yadav and Kumar Kartikeya