Ishan Kishan To Mohammed Shami: 10 Indian Test Stars To Watchout For In Duleep Trophy 2026

Several experienced Test cricket stars from Ishan Kishan to Mohammed Shami are gearing up to feature in the Duleep Trophy 2026. With their vast experience at the highest level, these cricketers will be looking to make a strong impact for their respective teams in India's premier domestic red-ball competition.

The Duleep Trophy 2026 is scheduled to be played from August 23 to September 10, with six teams battling for the title.

All the matches will be hosted at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, providing players with another opportunity to impress the national selectors ahead of a busy international season.

Here is a look at the 10 Indian Test stars to watch out for in Duleep Trophy 2026.

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1. Ishan Kishan (East Zone)

Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan will captain the East Zone side in this year's tournament.

Having returned to the Indian Test setup with renewed confidence, Kishan will aim to continue his impressive form and lead from the front with both the bat and behind the stumps.

2. Mohammed Shami (East Zone)

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami remains one of India's finest fast bowlers in the longest format. The experienced seamer will once again represent East Zone and will be eager to showcase his quality while guiding the younger bowlers in the squad.

Mohammed Shami has taken 229 wickets in Test cricket and will look to impress the selectors ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

3. Mukesh Kumar (East Zone)

Right-arm speedster Mukesh Kumar has steadily established himself in Indian cricket with consistent performances across formats.

The Delhi Capitals pacer is known for his disciplined bowling and wicket-taking ability, making him one of East Zone's biggest weapon in the tournament. Mukesh Kumar has taken 7 wickets in Test cricket across 3 matches and 6 innings for team India.

4. Ayush Badoni (North Zone)

Young batting sensation Ayush Badoni has impressed in both the Ranji Trophy and the IPL, debuting for senior Indian men's cricket team in January 2026.

After recently representing India A against Sri Lanka A, the North Zone batter will be keen to impress in Duleep Trophy 2026.

5. Sarfaraz Khan (West Zone)

One of the most prolific performers in domestic cricket, Sarfaraz Khan has made the most of his opportunities in Test cricket with impressive performances.

His ability to score big runs under pressure makes him a key player for West Zone and one to watch throughout the competition.

6. Prithvi Shaw (West Zone)

Aggressive opener Prithvi Shaw will be looking to make another strong statement in domestic cricket.

Known for his attacking approach at the top of the order, Shaw has the ability to dominate bowling attacks and could play a crucial role for West Zone if he gets going.

7. Shardul Thakur (West Zone)

Experienced all-rounder Shardul Thakur brings balance to any side with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. He has delivered several match-winning performances for India in Test cricket.

Shardul will be expected to play a leading role for West Zone in crucial matches with his impressive record of 33 wickets in 13 Test matches for India.

8. Rajat Patidar (Central Zone)

Stylish batter Rajat Patidar has grown into a dependable middle-order option in Indian cricket.
His solid technique and temperament in red-ball cricket make him one of Central Zone's key players as they chase Duleep Trophy glory.

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9. Karun Nair (South Zone)

Former India Test batter Karun Nair, who famously scored a triple century in Test cricket, remains one of the most experienced campaigners in domestic cricket.

Representing the South Zone, he will aim to lead the batting lineup with his experience and consistency.

10. Tushar Deshpande (West Zone)

Fast bowler Tushar Deshpande has continued to develop into a reliable pace option through consistent domestic performances.

His ability to generate movement with the new ball and strike at important moments makes him an exciting player to watch for West Zone in the tournament.