Rediffusion and icymi have come up with a report 'The Duleep Trophy' to capture the milestones, records, and moments that have turned the Duleep trophy into an experimental legacy.
The highlights of the report are as follows:
Duleep Trophy: Six Decades of Grit, Glory and India’s Talent Factory
Not all cricket is about international glamour — some tournaments are about grit, tradition, and proving yourself. For over six decades, the Duleep Trophy has been exactly that: a battleground where India’s finest cricketers sharpen their skills and stake their claim for the national stage.
Launched in 1961–62 and named after the legendary Kumar Shri Duleepsinhji, the tournament carries forward the princely legacy of Indian cricket, standing alongside the Ranji Trophy as a pillar of domestic competition.
A Tournament That Reinvents Itself
The Duleep has never been afraid of change. Of its 61 editions, 45 have been knockouts, 7 league-based, and 9 hybrid formats. In 2025–26, the BCCI will host the event as a six-zone knockout in Bengaluru, continuing its evolution. The core message has stayed constant: perform here, and the selectors are watching.
The Zone Wars
West Zone has been the most dominant force with 19 titles, powered by Mumbai’s batting giants and Gujarat’s rising stars.
North Zone, equally strong, boasts a 36.5% success rate and a reputation for spin, wicket-keeping, and infrastructure-driven depth.
South Zone, though trailing with 14 wins, has contributed some of Indian cricket’s finest talent.
Records That Made History
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Most runs: Wasim Jaffer (West Zone) – 2,545
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Highest individual score: Raman Lamba (North Zone) – 320 vs West Zone, 1987–88
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Highest partnership: VVS Laxman & Rahul Dravid – 409 for the 3rd wicket (South Zone vs West Zone)
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Most wickets: Narendra Hirwani (Central Zone) – 126
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Best bowling figures: Debasis Mohanty (East Zone) – 10/46 vs South Zone
The Duleep Trophy has also witnessed mammoth totals — North Zone’s 868 vs West Zone (1987/88 final) remains unmatched.
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