Ruturaj Gaikwad Named West Zone Captain for Duleep Trophy 2026-27
West Zone have announced their squad for the 2026-27 Duleep Trophy, with Ruturaj Gaikwad appointed captain for the season-opening tournament, which begins on August 23. Mumbai all-rounder Shams Mulani has been named vice-captain.
The squad features several experienced domestic performers, while Prithvi Shaw has earned a recall after an impressive Ranji Trophy campaign for Maharashtra.
Prithvi Shaw Returns After Strong Domestic Season
Former India opener Prithvi Shaw has been rewarded for his outstanding performances in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy.
Representing Maharashtra in his first season after leaving Mumbai, Shaw scored 537 runs in 11 innings at an average of 48.84, including a brilliant 222 against Chandigarh. The knock also featured one of the fastest double centuries in Ranji Trophy history.
His return adds experience and firepower to the West Zone batting unit.
Gaikwad Set for Middle-Order Role
Although widely known as an opening batter, Ruturaj Gaikwad is expected to bat in the middle order during the Duleep Trophy.
The move reflects the role Gaikwad sees for himself in red-ball cricket. The Maharashtra batter heads into the tournament after helping India A win both the one-day tri-series and the four-day series in Sri Lanka.
Mumbai Players Dominate Squad
West Zone’s squad includes six players from Mumbai, highlighting the state’s strong domestic depth.
Experienced names like Shardul Thakur, Sarfaraz Khan, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Musheer Khan and Tushar Deshpande have all been included.
Young all-rounder Musheer Khan earned his place after an excellent Ranji Trophy season in which he scored 446 runs and claimed 16 wickets.
Ayush Mhatre Misses Out
Teenage batter Ayush Mhatre was not considered for selection as he continues his rehabilitation from hamstring and wrist injuries.
The 19-year-old is currently recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after missing a major part of IPL 2026.
Balanced Squad for New Season
The spin attack will be led by Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian and Gujarat left-arm spinner Siddharth Desai, while Harvik Desai is expected to be the first-choice wicketkeeper with Urvil Patel serving as backup.
West Zone will be aiming for a stronger campaign after being knocked out by eventual champions Central Zone in the semi-finals of last season’s Duleep Trophy.
The six-team tournament will be played from August 23 to September 10 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
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