Duleep Trophy 2024: Sai Sudharsan to Devdutt Padikkal - Five Youngsters to Keep an Eye On

As India's domestic cricket season kicks off with the Duleep Trophy, which runs from September 5 to 22, a blend of seasoned players and promising young talents will compete to refine their skills.

With the Indian Test squad undergoing a transition, this tournament offers an invaluable opportunity for emerging players to stake their claim for a spot in the national team. Over the next four months, India will play 10 Test matches, including five at home and five in Australia, and these five young cricketers are ones to watch as they aim to make a strong case for selection.

1. Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh, primarily known for his prowess in limited-overs cricket, will be eyeing a spot in the Test squad. At just 24 years old, this left-arm pacer has already demonstrated his potential at the international level. With 16 First-Class matches under his belt and 49 wickets at an average nearing 32, Arshdeep's performances in the Duleep Trophy will be crucial for selectors to gauge his readiness for the longest format. His transition from T20s to Test cricket will be closely monitored.

2. Harshit Rana

Harshit Rana, a promising pace-bowling all-rounder, is another player to watch. Despite having only played seven First-Class games, Rana has already made a mark with his performances in the IPL and domestic cricket. The 22-year-old has claimed 28 wickets at an impressive average of 26.35 and a strike rate below 40. Given India's search for a pace-bowling all-rounder, Rana's performances in the Duleep Trophy could fast-track him to the national side if he continues his upward trajectory.

3. Manav Suthar

Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar has been rising steadily, showcasing his talent over the past 18 months. Playing for Rajasthan, Suthar has captured 65 wickets in just 14 First-Class matches at an average of 24.44. His clean action and skillful flight have earned him recognition, and his participation in the U-23 Emerging Asia Cup in 2023, along with his IPL debut for Gujarat Titans in 2024, underline his growing reputation. With India in search of another left-arm orthodox spinner, Suthar is expected to be on the selectors' radar.

4. Sai Sudharsan

Sai Sudharsan, a 22-year-old left-handed batsman, has impressed selectors with his performances in limited-overs formats. Known for his top-order batting, Sudharsan's left-handedness is a valuable asset for the Indian team's future plans. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal has made a notable start to his Test career, Sudharsan's potential keeps him in contention as he looks to make an impact in the Duleep Trophy.

5. Devdutt Padikkal

Devdutt Padikkal, another left-handed batsman, has been a key figure for selectors over the past two years. Having made his Test debut against England earlier this year, Padikkal will aim to build on his performances with a strong showing in the Duleep Trophy. His contributions will be vital as he looks to secure a place in the squad for the upcoming home Test series.