dolarkit.com – Strategic News & Policy Briefs

Robin Uthappa suggests Cheteshwar Pujara's retirement might have been delayed, pointing to his exclusion from the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad as a potential turning point. Despite this, Uthappa lauded Pujara's unwavering dedication, recalling a Ranji Trophy match where Pujara's commitment to batting was evident. While the timing may be debated, Pujara's significant contribution to Indian Test cricket remains undeniable.

Riyan Parag, recovering from a shoulder injury sustained last October, returned to competitive cricket in the Duleep Trophy after a stint in the IPL where he experienced stress as stand-in captain. Parag expressed satisfaction with his performance in the Duleep Trophy match, focusing on enjoying the game and testing his fitness.

North Zone's pacers dominated the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal against East Zone. Auqib Nabi's hat-trick and five-wicket haul helped dismiss East Zone for 230, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana delivered impactful spells. North Zone extended their score to 405, establishing a 183-run lead. Arshdeep, returning from injury, showcased excellent form.

Central Zone dominated the first day of the Duleep Trophy quarter-final, reaching 432 for 2 against North East Zone. Danish Malewar remained unbeaten on 198, while Rajat Patidar contributed a rapid 125. Their impressive partnership helped Central Zone build a strong foundation, with Malewar nearing a double century.

Indian cricket fans expressed disappointment as the Duleep Trophy, a premier domestic tournament featuring stars like Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, lacked live streaming. This edition marks a return to the zonal format and serves as a trial for the 'serious injury replacement substitute' rule.

Sarfaraz Khan's unbeaten 109 propelled Mumbai against Haryana in the Buchi Babu Tournament, rescuing them from an early collapse. This century follows his earlier 138 against TNCA XI, solidifying his form ahead of the Test season.

Prithvi Shaw marked his Maharashtra debut with a resilient century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025, held in Chennai. After a top-order collapse, Shaw's 111-run innings stabilised the team, showcasing a return to form after a challenging period. This performance reignites hopes for a career resurgence as he aims to carry this momentum into the Ranji Trophy season.