Team India’s rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal, who impressed with two centuries in the recent five-Test series against England, had a forgettable outing in the Duleep Trophy 2025 semi-final. Playing for West Zone against Central Zone, the young opener lasted just three deliveries before being trapped leg-before wicket. The dismissal came in the very first over, courtesy of pacer Khaleel Ahmed, leaving West Zone stunned.
Early Blow for West Zone
The second semi-final, being played in Bengaluru, got off to a disastrous start for Shardul Thakur’s West Zone. Both their openers departed with the score still in single digits. Jaiswal, who carried high expectations after his strong run in international cricket, managed only 4 runs off 3 balls before falling LBW to Khaleel Ahmed.
His dismissal came as a major disappointment, considering his brilliant form in the England Test series, where he scored 411 runs in 10 innings at an average of 41.10, including two centuries and two fifties. However, Khaleel ensured there was no repeat of that heroics in the domestic fixture.
Harvik Desai Departs Early Too
Following Jaiswal’s exit, West Zone suffered a second setback almost immediately. Opener Harvik Desai also failed to make an impact, scoring just 1 run before being dismissed by Deepak Chahar. With both openers back in the pavilion within 10 runs, West Zone found themselves under severe pressure right at the start of the knockout clash.
Central Zone’s Strong Run in the Tournament
Central Zone, on the other hand, came into the semi-final with strong momentum. They had knocked out North East Zone in the quarter-final, thanks to some stellar batting performances. Danish Malewar’s double century and a fine century from captain Rajat Patidar ensured their smooth entry into the semi-finals.
Their bowling unit, led by Khaleel Ahmed and Deepak Chahar, has now provided them with a perfect start in the high-stakes encounter against West Zone.
High Expectations on Jaiswal
The early dismissal of Jaiswal is particularly notable because the youngster has been in red-hot form at the international level. His aggressive yet composed batting style has already made him one of India’s most promising openers across formats. Fans and selectors alike were looking forward to a big knock in domestic cricket, but Khaleel Ahmed’s sharp spell ensured otherwise.
What’s Next in the Duleep Trophy 2025
With West Zone losing both openers cheaply, much will now depend on their middle order to stabilize the innings. On the other side, Central Zone will be aiming to capitalize on this early advantage and strengthen their chances of reaching the final.
The Duleep Trophy 2025 has already delivered some memorable moments, and this semi-final clash promises more drama as both zones battle for supremacy.
