Hanuma Vihari to lead South Zone in Duleep Trophy
After a five-month hiatus, Andhra batter Hanuma Vihari is set to make a remarkable comeback as the captain of the South Zone team in the highly anticipated Duleep Trophy. This prestigious tournament is scheduled to kick off on June 28 in the vibrant city of Bengaluru.
Vihari’s absence from the game was a result of an unfortunate forearm fracture he sustained during Andhra’s defeat against Madhya Pradesh in the quarterfinals of the Ranji Trophy 2022–23, where he faced the fiery seamer Avesh Khan.
Vihari’s Trusted Deputy
Joining Vihari as his trusted deputy in the team is the talented Karnataka batter, Mayank Agarwal. The selectors from the South Zone Associations carefully handpicked the team during a meeting held in Goa on Tuesday, ensuring a balanced and formidable squad.
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Exciting Additions to the Squad
The South Zone team boasts a number of promising talents, including Tamil Nadu batter Sai Sudharsan. Sudharsan had an exceptional domestic season in 2022–23, culminating in a stunning knock of 96 runs off just 47 balls for the Gujarat Titans during the IPL 2023 final. Accompanying Sudharsan are his statemates Washington Sundar, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, and Sai Kishore, forming a formidable quartet in the 15-member squad.
Experienced Wicketkeeping Duo
The wicketkeeping duties for the South Zone team will be handled by the experienced Andhra player, KS Bharat, who recently showcased his skills in the World Test Championship final against Australia at the iconic Oval in London. Bharat will be accompanied by his teammate Ricky Bhui, creating a solid and reliable wicketkeeping duo.
Regional Representation
The selection panel has ensured fair regional representation in the team, with players selected from various states. Sachin Baby, an accomplished batter from Kerala, along with Darshan Misal from Goa and the young prodigy Tilak Varma representing Hyderabad, have been given the opportunity to showcase their talent on this grand stage.
Aiming for Glory
After finishing as the runner-up in the previous edition, the South Zone team enters the tournament with high hopes and determination. With a direct berth in the semifinals alongside the defending champion West Zone, they are ready to embark on their quest for the coveted Duleep Trophy.
South Zone squad for Duleep Trophy 2023
Hanuma Vihari (c), Mayank Agarwal (vc), Sai Sudharsan, Ricky Bhui (wk), KS Bharat (wk), R Samarth, Washington Sundar, Sachin Baby, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Sai Kishore, V Kaverappa, V Vyshak, KV Sasikanth, Darshan Misal, and Tilak Varma.
