The 2025-26 Indian domestic cricket season kicked off on Thursday, 28th August, with the Duleep Trophy. The first round is currently underway in Bengaluru, with several teams in action.
However, some prominent names, including Jurel and Easwaran, missed the tournament’s opening fixtures. Both players had confirmed their participation, with Dhruv Jurel named captain of the Central Zone side and Abhimanyu Easwaran leading the East Zone team.
Reports suggest that Dhruv Jurel missed the game due to a groin niggle. Sources told the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the management decided not to risk him ahead of an important cricket season.
Dhruv Jurel has sustained a groin niggle on the eve of the match, and the selectors have advised him to sit out this game. He remains on the standby list for the Asia Cup squad, and the selectors don’t want to take any chances.
“Following the Asia Cup, India will host four Test matches, and with uncertainty surrounding (Rishabh) Pant’s fitness, Dhruv Jurel has been asked to avoid any risks.”
Dhruv Jurel: Abhimanyu Easwaran fell ill with the flu on the morning of the match.
He had been named captain of the East Zone after Ishan Kishan was ruled out of the tournament. Missing the game would be particularly disappointing for Easwaran, who has spent much of recent time on the bench.
During India’s recent series against England, Abhimanyu Easwaran did not feature in a single match, a situation that attracted considerable criticism from fans and pundits alike. Many questioned the team management’s decisions, pointing out that Easwaran, with his consistent domestic performances, deserved an opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. Despite this setback, Easwaran remains determined to make his presence felt.
With the domestic season approaching, he will be keen to put in strong performances, aiming to remind selectors of his capabilities and strengthen his case for a potential Test cap in the near future. This season represents a crucial window for him to prove that his form and technique are more than capable of handling the rigors of international cricket.
Meanwhile, with Dhruv Jurel unavailable for the opening rounds of the Duleep Trophy 2025-26 due to a minor groin niggle, the team management has made adjustments to ensure leadership continuity. In his absence, Rajat Patidar has been entrusted with the captaincy of the Central Zone team. Patidar, known for his calm demeanor and sharp cricketing instincts, will look to guide his team through the challenges of the tournament while also demonstrating his leadership abilities. His experience in domestic cricket, coupled with his ability to anchor innings, makes him a suitable choice to lead the side during Dhruv Jurel absence.
Similarly, the East Zone team will see Riyan Parag taking charge as captain. Parag has often been praised for his aggressive style of play and adaptability across formats. Leading the East Zone in the Duleep Trophy provides him with an opportunity to not only contribute as a player but also develop his leadership skills further. Both Patidar and Parag will have the added responsibility of motivating their squads and setting a benchmark for performance, ensuring that their respective teams remain competitive throughout the early stages of the tournament.
As the domestic season kicks off, all eyes will be on these emerging leaders and players eager to make an impression. Easwaran will be determined to translate his domestic form into opportunities at the international level, while Dhruv Jurel absence opens doors for others to step up and demonstrate their talent. The Duleep Trophy 2025-26 promises to be an exciting platform for both established performers and rising stars, with the season potentially shaping the future trajectory of several Indian cricketers.