Central Zone clinch Duleep Trophy 2025 Title with 6-Wicket Win Over South Zone

This win marked Central Zone’s seventh Duleep Trophy triumph, reinforcing their dominance in India’s premier domestic red-ball competition.

After winning the toss, Central Zone opted to bowl first, and the decision paid off immediately. South Zone crumbled to just 149 runs in the first innings, unable to counter the spin duo of Saransh Jain (5 wickets) and Kumar Kartikeya (4 wickets). Their spells dismantled South Zone’s batting foundation and handed CZ the early advantage.

In reply, Central Zone produced a fiery batting display, piling up 511 runs, led by a magnificent 194 from Yash Rathod and a composed century from skipper Rajat Patidar (101). The 362-run lead meant South Zone were always on the back foot.

Despite a strong fightback in the second innings, powered by Ankit Sharma’s gritty 99 and Andre Siddarth’s partnership, South Zone managed 426. But the effort was not enough as Central Zone required only 66 runs to seal the final. They reached the target in 20.3 overs, finishing at 69/4, with Yash Rathod (13)* and Akshay Wadkar (19)* unbeaten at the crease.

All-rounder Saransh Jain, who bagged 8 wickets across the match including a crucial five-for in the first innings, was named Player of the Series. “I’m happy with both bat and ball, but picking a five-wicket haul in the final made it special,” Jain said at the presentation ceremony.

The victory showcased Central Zone’s balanced squad, with both batters and bowlers rising to the occasion. For South Zone, the poor first innings batting display proved decisive as they fell short in a high-stakes final.

With this win, Central Zone lifted their seventh Duleep Trophy title, further establishing themselves as one of the most successful teams in India’s domestic circuit.