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The Rise of Jammu & Kashmir in North Zone Cricket
The selection committee for the 2026-27 Duleep Trophy has finalized a North Zone squad that signals a clear shift in domestic power dynamics. With Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) emerging as the reigning Ranji Trophy champions, it comes as little surprise that their stars feature heavily in the roster. The Duleep Trophy: Wadhawan to lead J&K dominated North Zone squad announcement highlights the leadership of wicketkeeper-batter Kanhaiya Wadhawan, who has been entrusted with the captaincy, supported by the versatile Ayush Badoni as his deputy.
A Dominant J&K Core
The composition of the 15-member squad is a testament to the success of the J&K cricket setup over the last twelve months. Six players from the triumphant Ranji side have earned their spots, reflecting their collective form. Captain Wadhawan leads the charge, coming off a solid season where he amassed 474 runs at an average of 36.46. Joining him are consistent performers such as opener Qamran Iqbal—earning his debut call-up after a spectacular 160 not out in the Ranji final—and the explosive middle-order batter Abdul Samad. Samad was a revelation in the previous season, topping the J&K charts with 748 runs at an impressive average of 57.53. The spin department will also rely on J&K talent, with Abid Mushtaq providing a dual threat as a left-arm spin allrounder, following a season where he contributed 445 runs and claimed 20 wickets.
Delhi Contingent Bolsters the Batting Order
While the J&K influence is undeniable, the squad remains balanced with significant representation from Delhi, which claims four spots in the team. The batting depth has been significantly bolstered by the inclusions of Ayush Doseja and Sanat Sangwan. Doseja, in particular, was a force of nature during the last Ranji campaign, scoring a staggering 949 runs at an incredible average of 105.44, featuring four centuries. Sangwan was not far behind, racking up 828 runs at 69.00. Together with the experienced Yash Dhull and vice-captain Ayush Badoni, the top and middle order represent some of the most dangerous batting talent currently operating in Indian domestic cricket.
The Pace Attack and Future Prospects
The bowling department features a mix of international experience and domestic workhorses. Arshdeep Singh returns to the red-ball format, spearheading a pace attack that includes the J&K pair of Yudhvir Singh and Sunil Kumar, alongside Haryana’s Anshul Kamboj. While the team will miss the services of last season’s most successful bowler, Aquib Nabi—currently away with the Indian squad in Sri Lanka—the existing depth is expected to cause problems for any opposition. The team’s campaign begins on August 23 at the BCCI‘s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where they will face off against West Zone in what promises to be a high-intensity clash.
Official North Zone Squad
The complete 15-member squad for the upcoming tournament is as follows:
- Kanhaiya Wadhawan (Captain/Wicketkeeper)
- Ayush Badoni (Vice-Captain)
- Sanat Sangwan
- Qamran Iqbal
- Yash Dhull
- Ayush Doseja
- Abdul Samad
- Nishant Sindhu
- Arjun Sharma
- Abid Mushtaq
- Arshdeep Singh
- Sunil Kumar
- Anshul Kamboj
- Yudhvir Singh
- Nikhil Kashyap
As the North Zone side readies themselves for the challenge, the focus will undoubtedly be on how quickly the J&K core and the Delhi contingent can gel under Wadhawan’s leadership. With high expectations following their recent domestic triumphs, all eyes will be on Bengaluru to see if this squad can translate their individual success into a collective Duleep Trophy title.