The final round of the 2024 Duleep Trophy concluded on Sunday in Anantapur, with India A winning the title by defeating Ruturaj Gaikwad’s India C. India D secured a consolation win thanks to Arshdeep Singh’s career-best figures of 6 for 40 in their 257-run victory over India B.
The tournament served as a preparation to identify backup options for the Indian Test team ahead of the Ranji Trophy season.
Former Australia captain Ian Chappell recently highlighted the need for a left-arm fast bowler in India’s Test lineup for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Khaleel Ahmed showed promise in the earlier rounds, but Arshdeep shone in the final game with 9 for 40, potentially putting himself in contention for the Australia tour in December.
However, Mumbai’s senior middle-order duo of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav had disappointing campaigns. Iyer, dropped from the Indian Test squad earlier this year, managed just 154 runs in six innings, while Suryakumar, hoping for a Test return, struggled with scores of 5 and 16.
On the other hand, Sanju Samson made a strong case with a century and a quick 45 in India D’s win. If he performs well in the Ranji Trophy, Samson could challenge Ishan Kishan for a spot in India’s red-ball team.