India’s home calendar for cricket is ready to get underway with the Duleep Trophy, which starts on August 28 in Bengaluru. Of significance, the tournament will revert to its classic zonal approach this year, with teams representing various regions of the nation.

West Zone has released a strong team prior to the tournament, which is being led by pacer Shardul Thakur. The team includes some big names like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. But two of India’s most seasoned batters Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara have been omitted this time, representing a change in the team’s strategy.

Why Shreyas Iyer Didn’t Receive Captaincy?

Among the discussion points is the choice to make Shardul Thakur the captain over Shreyas Iyer. With Iyer’s experience and stature, most people thought that he would be the one leading the side. So, why was he not chosen for leadership?

The answer is scheduling and availability. As the Asia Cup is scheduled to start on September 9, there are high chances that Iyer can be called up by the Indian team for the next Asia Cup 2025. The selectors did not wish to take the risk of declaring a captain who might not be available for the entire length of the Duleep Trophy. Consequently, the task was left to Shardul Thakur, who has a better chance of being available for the entire competition.

Curiously enough, a day prior to the announcement of the squad, news came in that Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shivam Dube had all expressed their willingness to play in the Duleep Trophy. Iyer, who played his last Test in February 2024 against England, has been eager to find his place in the Test side. His tally consists of 14 Tests with one century and five fifties under his belt. Sarfaraz Khan, who was also part of the England series this year, is in the same situation – wishing to play well and impress selectors once again.

At present, however, West Zone will be captained by Shardul Thakur, while Iyer’s attention could turn towards international duties soon if he is included in India’s Asia Cup team.