The Duleep Trophy 2025 got off to a rough start on August 28 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru as both Central Zone and East Zone suffered major blows. Central Zone captain Dhruv Jurel and East Zone skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran were both ruled out of the opening match, a cause of concern for India with the Asia Cup 2025 around the corner.
Just before the Duleep Trophy 2025 opener on Thursday, young Indian wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel developed a minor groin issue. Since Jurel is on the Asia Cup 2025 standby list and India has four big Test matches coming up soon, the selectors asked him to sit out the match to be on the safer side.
The BCCI is being cautious with Jurel as Rishabh Pant’s fitness is still uncertain.
Abhimanyu Easwaran, on the other hand, faced more disappointment after spending the entire England tour as a reserve player. In Ishan Kishan’s absence, Easwaran was given the captaincy of East Zone. But he woke up with flu on the morning of the Duleep Trophy match and had to miss the game. This was a big blow for Easwaran who missed an opportunity to impress the selectors with his performance. Despite being included in several India squads, he’s still waiting for his chance to play.
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According to a BCCI source quoted by the Times of India, Jurel felt a twinge in his groin just before the match and the selectors have asked him to sit out. The source added, He’s also on standby for the Asia Cup 2025 squad and the selectors don’t want to take any chances. India has four Test matches at home after the Asia Cup and with Pant’s injury situation unclear, Jurel has been advised to avoid any risk.
With Jurel out, RCB captain Rajat Patidar is leading the Central Zone against North Zone. Earlier this year, Patidar made history by leading RCB to their first IPL title in 18 years. In Easwaran’s absence, Riyan Parag who captained Rajasthan Royals earlier in the IPL 2025 is leading the East Zone.
Meanwhile, the India vs Pakistan match on September 14 in Dubai has become a hot topic ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. With calls for a boycott due to Operation Sindoor, Mohammed Shami said cricket follows the government’s decisions, not emotions.
Shami told News24, “I don’t pay attention to arguments, always better to agree with the government and the cricket board. Whatever they decide, you should support it. Cricket isn’t just about emotions; many other things are involved. When everyone agrees to play, you should play.”
Shami added, “I don’t think playing against Pakistan is that different from playing against other countries. But the fans feel it more. Their excitement creates a unique atmosphere which can energize the players. It’s fun.”
