Rajat Patidar to Lead Central Zone as Rinku Singh Named Vice Captain for Duleep Trophy 2026 Central Zone has announced its 15-member squad for Duleep Trophy 2026, reappointing Rajat Patidar as captain and naming Rinku Singh as vice-captain. Central Zone has officially announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2026 tournament. Defending champions Central Zone have once again reposed faith in experienced Madhya Pradesh batter Rajat Patidar to lead the side. In a significant leadership move, explosive young India batter Rinku Singh has been named vice-captain. Central Zone enter the tournament with high expectations after securing the title last season by defeating South Zone in a competitive final match. Balanced Bowling Attack Featuring International and Domestic Performers The Central Zone bowling line-up features a mix of players with international experience alongside proven domestic performers. Right-arm fast bowler Yash Thakur will spearhead the pace attack, backed by seamers Arshad Khan and Nachiket Bhute. Left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey brings vital depth to the side with his ability to contribute effectively with both bat and ball. The spin department will be anchored by Saransh Jain, Rajat Patidar's teammate from Madhya Pradesh. Saransh Jain was recently drafted into the main Indian national squad for the Sri Lanka series as a replacement for injured Washington Sundar. Supporting Saransh Jain in the spin unit are Uttar Pradesh leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari and Harsh Dubey. Zeeshan Ansari earned his spot following an impressive return to red-ball cricket after a 5-year gap during the India A tour of Sri Lanka. Faith Placed in In-Form Youngsters and Middle-Order Batters Selectors have strongly rewarded outstanding domestic form in building the batting department. Vidarbha opener Aman Mokhade earns his selection following a stellar 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season. Mokhade amassed 760 runs across 11 innings at a remarkable average of 76, a performance that previously secured him an India A call-up. Joining Mokhade in the opening options is Chhattisgarh batter Ayush Pandey, who recently made his India A debut during the tour of Sri Lanka. In the middle order, Vidarbha batter Yash Rathod is set to play a key role alongside captain Rajat Patidar. Yash Rathod has delivered consistent performances over the past two domestic seasons. Wicketkeeping duties will be shared between Aryan Juyal and Kunal Singh Rathod, while Kunal Chandela and Aryan Pandey complete the squad. Direct Semi-Final Entry and Tournament Schedule Details The Duleep Trophy 2026 is scheduled to commence on 23 August at the CoE ground in Bengaluru, with the final match slated to begin on 6 September. As the defending champions of the tournament, Central Zone will bypass the first round and have been granted direct entry into the semi-final stage. Central Zone will launch their campaign in the semi-final starting on 30 August. They will take on the winner of the first-round fixture between East Zone and North East Zone. With a strong blend of youth and experience, Central Zone aims to replicate its previous campaign's success and retain the prestigious title. Full 15-Member Central Zone Squad for Duleep Trophy 2026 The complete 15-player list selected for the tournament is as follows • Rajat Patidar (Captain) • Rinku Singh (Vice-Captain) • Aryan Juyal (Wicketkeeper) • Kunal Singh Rathod (Wicketkeeper) • Saransh Jain • Aman Mokhade • Kunal Chandela • Zeeshan Ansari • Aryan Pandey • Arshad Khan • Ayush Pandey • Yash Rathod • Harsh Dubey • Yash Thakur • Nachiket Bhute What this means for you For Cricket Fans: The Duleep Trophy showcases top domestic and national stars in red-ball cricket, offering fans a glimpse of emerging talent competing for spots in the national team. Questions & Answers 1. Who has been appointed captain and vice-captain of Central Zone for Duleep Trophy 2026? Rajat Patidar has been named captain of Central Zone, while Rinku Singh has been appointed as the vice-captain. 2. When and against whom will Central Zone play their first semi-final match? Central Zone will play their semi-final starting on 30 August against the winner of the East Zone vs North East Zone match. 3. How did Aman Mokhade perform in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season? Vidarbha opener Aman Mokhade scored 760 runs in 11 innings at an average of 76 during the 2025-26 Ranji season. 4. When and where does Duleep Trophy 2026 begin? Duleep Trophy 2026 begins on 23 August at the CoE ground in Bengaluru, with the final match scheduled from 6 September. 5. As whose replacement was Saransh Jain drafted into Team India? Saransh Jain was included in Team India's squad for the Sri Lanka series as a replacement for the injured Washington Sundar. https://trendkia.com/en/cricket/rajat-patidar-snbhalenge-central-zone-ki-kamana-duleep-trophy-2026-men-rinku-singh-bane-upakaptana-12829 TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.