To true fans, this tournament is a stage where budding stars can announce themselves to the cricketing world. It is a place where dreams and aspirations transform into chances, and it can take one day for a career to depart into uncertainty. With India’s home season around the corner, the 2025 edition is the perfect opportunity to make a statement. Perform here, and the Test cap becomes a reality rather than a dream. From experienced batsmen looking to prove they still belong, to bowlers wanting to show their best with a chance to make a mark, there is a group of hopefuls who will all have their fortunes restored.
Sarfaraz Khan
If there’s one guy who deserves a break, it’s Sarfaraz Khan. The man has been scoring truckloads in domestic cricket for years, finally made it to the Indian Test side, and even started well, only to hit a rough patch. A few low scores later, he found himself on the sidelines again.
But here lies the difference with Sarfaraz – he won’t stay down for long. His recent century in the Buchi Babu tournament proves that he’s still got plenty of runs left in him. The Duleep Trophy comes at the right time before the home season, allowing Sarfaraz to remind people that class doesn’t vanish overnight.
Shreyas Iyer
Do you remember when Shreyas Iyer was the answer for India in counterattacking scenarios? At some point, he slipped from the Test radar. He was dropped in the middle of the England series, not picked for the Asia Cup—it has been a rollercoaster ride.
Iyer has made a strong case for himself in white-ball cricket and had a great Ranji Trophy season with Mumbai, averaging almost 70. The question is, can he take that run-scoring form into the longer format this week during the Duleep Trophy? If so, Iyer could fit back in comfortably into India’s middle order, which has been craving some stability.
Mukesh Kumar
India’s fast-bowling cupboard is full but also fragile. With Bumrah out, Shami winding down, and Siraj taking most of the responsibility, there’s a clear spot for a steady bowler. Enter Mukesh Kumar.
He’s not flashy, but he hits the right areas all day long. After decent outings for India ‘A’ and a good IPL season, the Duleep Trophy gives Mukesh a platform to scream “pick me” for the longer format. With pitches likely offering some assistance early in the season, don’t be surprised if he emerges as India’s next steady seamer.
Tanush Kotian
Post-Ashwin retirement, India’s spin department is going through a mini-transition. Sure, there’s Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep, but all of them are left-arm options. That’s where Tanush Kotian comes in as a right-arm off-spinner—something India might desperately need for variety.
He was even named as Ashwin’s replacement earlier, so the selectors clearly have an eye on him. Impressing in the Duleep Trophy could transform a watchful glance from the selectors into a genuine call to join the squad.
FAQs
1. How can the Duleep Trophy shape a player’s chances of making it to the Indian Test team?
It offers a platform for players to impress selectors and push for a spot in the Indian Test team.
2. Has Sarfaraz Khan cracked the code to force the selectors’ hand?
After recent low scores and a strong Buchi Babu century, he has the chance to reclaim a Test spot.
3. When does the Duleep Trophy start in 2025?
Cricket action kicks off for the 2025 Duleep Trophy on Thursday, August 28.
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