The South Zone Cricket Association has announced a 17-member squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025, with young batting star Tilak Varma named as captain and Kerala’s Mohammed Azharuddeen appointed as vice-captain. The team features a balanced mix of experienced domestic performers and promising youngsters, setting the stage for an exciting campaign.
South Zone Squad
Tilak Varma (C), Mohammed Azharuddeen (VC), Tanmay Agarwal, Devdutt Padikkal, Mohit Kale, Salman Nizar, Narayan Jagadeesan, Tripurana Vijay, R. Sai Kishore, Tanay Thyagarajan, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Nidheesh M.D., Ricky Bhui, Basil N.P., Gurjapneet Singh, Snehal Kauthankar, Edhen Apple Tom.
Key Players to Watch
- Tilak Varma: The captain will be a crucial presence in the middle order, known for his consistency across formats.
- Devdutt Padikkal: The stylish left-hander brings both elegance and experience to the top order.
- R. Sai Kishore: A proven all-rounder, his left-arm spin will play a vital role on Indian pitches.
- Edhen Apple Tom: A rising fast-bowling talent from Kerala, he adds extra firepower to the pace unit.
Blend of Experience and Youth
The squad is a reflection of South Zone’s domestic depth, with seasoned players like Tanmay Agarwal, Narayan Jagadeesan, and Ricky Bhui providing stability, while younger names such as Tripurana Vijay and Snehal Kauthankar aim to make their mark.
Duleep Trophy 2025: A Crucial Platform
The Duleep Trophy remains one of India’s most prestigious domestic tournaments, often acting as a gateway for national selection. With the BCCI reviving the zonal format, regional pride is back on the line, and South Zone will be eager to dominate.
Focus on Kerala’s Strong Presence
The squad includes a strong Kerala contingent, with Azharuddeen, Basil NP, Nidheesh MD, Salman Nizar, and Edhen Apple Tom making the cut. This selection reflects Kerala’s impressive domestic performances in recent years.
What Lies Ahead
The Duleep Trophy 2025 kicks off in late August, and South Zone’s combination of experienced campaigners and fresh faces will look to strike the perfect balance to reclaim zonal supremacy.
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