Kohima, August 13 (MExN): In a proud moment for Nagaland cricket, three players from the state — Jonathan Rongsen, Sedezhalie Rupreo, and Hem Bahadur Chetri — have been selected to represent the NorthEast Zone in the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025-26.
According to the Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA), Mowalong Kichu will also travel with the squad as the team physio, ensuring players remain in peak condition throughout the tournament.
The Duleep Trophy, one of India’s premier domestic first-class competitions, was established in 1961-62 and features zonal teams from across the country. The NorthEast Zone was introduced in the 2018-19 season to foster cricket talent from the region.
Jonathan Rongsen, described by the NCA as “a seasoned campaigner,” will captain the NorthEast Zone side. This will be his third appearance in the tournament. “A seasoned campaigner will lead the Northeast Zone as Captain and this will be his third appearance in the Duleep Trophy, bringing leadership and experience to the team,” the release said.
For Sedezhalie Rupreo, the tournament will mark his debut at this level. “A promising talent is set to make his debut for the NorthEast Zone,” the NCA said. Hem Bahadur Chetri, another debutant, is “ready to make his mark on the national stage,” it added.
The 2025-26 edition will feature six zonal teams — North Zone, South Zone, East Zone, West Zone, Central Zone and NorthEast Zone — in a group-cum-knockout format. The NCA noted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed all zonal convenors to ensure that “all India players who are currently available be picked and are selected for their respective Zonal Teams.”
“The Nagaland Cricket Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to the selected players and support staff. We are immensely proud of Jonathan, Sedezhalie, Hem Bahadur, and Mowalong for earning this opportunity. Their selection is a testament to the rising talent in Nagaland and the Northeast. We wish the entire NorthEast Zone squad the very best for the tournament,” the release stated.
The Duleep Trophy is expected to pit the NorthEast Zone against India’s traditional cricketing powerhouses, giving the team a platform to showcase the region’s growing cricketing prowess.
