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The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) have announced a new chapter in their domestic cricket setup with the unveiling of 24-member squad for the opening phase of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26. In what is being seen as a bold and forward-looking decision, the selectors have entrusted a 25-year-old star with the captaincy. The announcement reflects a clear focus on youth leadership, signaling the dawn of a fresh era for Delhi cricket.
Ayush Badoni leads a new generation
Young batter Ayush Badoni has been appointed as the captain and his appointment marks a significant generational shift. Known for his composed yet aggressive batting style, particularly in the IPL, Badoni has steadily grown into a dependable and tactically aware cricketer. His leadership comes at a crucial time when Delhi is looking to rebuild its red-ball identity and bring consistency back to its domestic performances.
Supporting him will be Yash Dhull, a player celebrated for his maturity and calm leadership. Together, the duo represents the new face of Delhi cricket — fearless, modern, and hungry for success. Their combination of energy and insight could provide the spark Delhi needs to return to the top tier of the Ranji standings.
Nitish Rana’s return bolsters experience
While the leadership transition has drawn attention, the return of senior batter Nitish Rana has added an important layer of experience to the squad. Rana, who missed the previous season, brings both quality and composure to the middle order. His experience across formats — especially his IPL and domestic exploits — will provide a much-needed anchor for Delhi’s young batting lineup.
Rana’s comeback also adds leadership depth to the squad, with his ability to mentor younger players proving valuable in a side undergoing transformation. His aggressive yet calculated approach is expected to complement the team’s youthful flair, offering balance between stability and intent.
Meanwhile, young batter Priyansh Arya has earned his maiden call-up following an impressive run in local tournaments. His inclusion highlights the selectors’ renewed emphasis on recognizing and rewarding consistent domestic performances, further strengthening Delhi’s bench strength.
Also READ: Asia Cup hero Tilak Varma to captain Hyderabad in Ranji Trophy 2025-26; here’s the complete squad
Rishabh Pant’s return under review
One of the most closely watched developments surrounds Rishabh Pant’s potential return to domestic cricket. The explosive wicketkeeper-batter, who suffered a fractured foot during India’s tour of England in July, has resumed light training and is reportedly eager to make a comeback. However, his inclusion in the Delhi squad will hinge on medical clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Pant’s recovery has been closely monitored, and while his progress has been encouraging, the board’s medical team will make the final call on his fitness to play. If cleared, his return would be a massive boost for Delhi — both as a leader and a match-winner capable of turning games with his attacking flair.
Priyansh Arya earns maiden Ranji call-up
Among the new faces, 21-year-old Priyansh Arya stands out as one of the brightest young prospects in Indian domestic cricket. He had an impressive IPL season this year with the Punjab Kings, where he smashed 475 runs — the most by an uncapped Indian player in his debut season. His consistent performances and fearless approach caught the selectors’ attention, earning him a spot in the India A side that played against Australia A last month. Arya made an immediate impact there as well, scoring a brilliant century in his very first match.
Delhi Ranji Trophy Squad (2025-26): Ayush Badoni (captain), Yash Dhull (vice-captain), Anuj Rawat (wk), Arpit Rana, Sanat Sangwan, Sumit Mathur, Shivam Sharma, Rounak Waghela, Navdeep Saini, Simarjeet Singh, Money Grewal, Siddhant Sharma, Dhruv Kaushik, Pranav Rajvanshi, Nitish Rana, Himmat Singh, Ayush Doseja, Rahul Dagar, Hrithik Shokeen, Priyansh Arya, Tejasvi Dahiya (wk), Vaibhav Kandpal, Rohan Rana, Aryan Rana (subject to fitness).
Also READ: Maharashtra announce squad for Ranji Trophy 2025-26; Prithvi Shaw, Jalaj Saxena included
