Shillong, Aug 31: North East Zone’s batters held out for a hard-fought draw against Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal round, which concluded in Bengaluru today.
Central Zone made 532/4 declared and 331/7 declared, while NE Zone were all out for 185 in their first innings before putting up staunch resistance to end on 200/6 in their second innings. With a first innings lead, however, Central will progress to the semifinals.
Batter Arpit Bhatewara, fast bowler Akash Kumar Choudhary and left-arm orthodox spinner Aryan Borah were the three Meghalayans included in the 15-member squad. Akash, who was also part of the squad last season, was the only one to make it into the playing XI and he bagged a total of four wickets in the match – 2/103 in the first innings and 2/44 in the second – which gave him the best figures of any of the NE Zone bowlers.
Following the historic result, a message was issued by Leishangthem Ronel Singh, Honorary Secretary of the Manipur Cricket Association and Convenor of the North East Zone selection committee, and co-signed by Meghalaya Cricket Association President Naba Bhattacharjee and Honorary Secretary Rayonald Kharkamni. It read, “I extend my heartiest congratulations to the entire North East Zone team, along with the coach and support staff, for their commendable performance in the Duleep Trophy 2025 match against the formidable Central Zone team, featuring several well-known national and international players.”
Central Zone included players like India internationals Kuldeep Yadav and Deepak Chahar along with Indian Premier League star Harsh Dubey.
“Although the match concluded in a draw, it will be remembered as a historic milestone for North East cricket. Our boys not only competed against one of the strongest teams in the tournament but also displayed remarkable progress, grit and resilience, playing till the final ball with a true do-or-die spirit. This result stands as one of the finest performances by the North East Zone in recent years and marks an important step forward in our cricketing journey,” the message from Singh stated.
“I sincerely thank all the office bearers, officials and selectors of the North East state cricket associations for their tireless efforts in assembling the best possible side to represent our region. Their commitment and vision have been pivotal in ensuring steady growth and professionalism in North East cricket. While this achievement fills us with pride, it also reminds us of the need to continue working harder. With sustained focus on grassroots development, infrastructure building and talent grooming, I am confident that the North East Zone will build on this momentum and achieve even greater success in the years ahead,” he added.
