Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has announced a new chapter in its domestic cricket setup with the unveiling of a 24-man squad for the initial phase of the ranji trophy 2025-26In what is being seen as a bold and visionary decision, the selectors have handed over the captaincy to the 25-year-old star. This announcement reflects a clear focus on young leadership, signaling the beginning of a new era for Delhi Cricket.
Ayush Badoni leads a new generation
young batsman Ayush Badoni has been appointed captain and his appointment marks a significant generational change. Known for his composed yet aggressive batting style, especially in the IPL, Badoni has gradually become a confident and tactically aware cricketer. His leadership comes at a crucial time when Delhi is looking to rebuild its red-ball identity and bring consistency to its domestic performances.
have to support him Yash DhulA player celebrated for his maturity and calm leadership. Together, the pair represents the new face of Delhi cricket – fearless, modern and hungry for success. The combination of his energy and insight could provide the spark needed for Delhi to return to the top tier of the Ranji standings.
The experience has been strengthened by the return of Nitish Rana.
While the leadership change has attracted attention, the return of the senior batsman Nitish Rana Has added an important layer of experience to the team. Rana, who missed last season, brings both quality and composure to the middle order. His experience across all formats – especially his IPL and domestic exploits – will provide a much-needed foundation for Delhi’s young batting lineup.
Rana’s return also adds leadership depth to the team, with his ability to mentor younger players proving valuable to a team going through a period of change. His aggressive but calculated approach is expected to complement the youthful nature of the team, providing a balance between consistency and intent.
Meanwhile, the young batsman Priyansh Arya He has been included in the team for the first time after impressive performances in local tournaments. His inclusion highlights the selectors’ renewed emphasis on recognizing and rewarding consistent domestic performance, further strengthening Delhi’s bench strength.
Also read: Asia Cup hero Tilak Verma will captain Hyderabad in Ranji Trophy 2025-26; here’s the whole squad
Rishabh Pant’s return is under review
One of the most closely watched developments around Rishabh PantPossibility of return to domestic cricket. The explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, who suffered a leg fracture 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 team will depend on medical clearance from the BCCI Center of Excellence.
Pant’s recovery is being closely monitored and although his progress has been encouraging, the board’s medical team will take the final call on his fitness to play. If approved, his return will be a big boost for Delhi – both as a leader and a match-winner who is capable of turning games around with his aggressive nature.
Priyansh Arya included in Ranji team for the first time
21 year old among new faces Priyansh Arya Stands out as one of the brightest young prospects in Indian domestic cricket. He had a great IPL season this year punjab kingsWhere he scored 475 runs – the most by an uncapped Indian player in his debut season. His consistent performances and fearless approach caught the attention of the selectors, earning him a place in the selection India A side played against Australia A Last month. Arya made an immediate impact there too and scored a brilliant century in his very first match.
Delhi Ranji Trophy squad (2025–26): Ayush Badoni (captain), Yash Dhull (vice-captain), Anuj Rawat (wicketkeeper), Arpit Rana, Sanat Sangwan, Sumit Mathur, Shivam Sharma, Raunak Vaghela, Navdeep Saini, Simarjeet Singh, Mani Grewal, Siddhant Sharma, Dhruv Kaushik, Pranav Rajvanshi, Nitish Rana, Himmat Singh, Ayush Doseja, Rahul Dagar, Hrithik Shaukeen, Priyansh Arya, Tejashwi Dahiya (wicketkeeper), Vaibhav Kandpal, Rohan Rana, Aryan Rana (subject to fitness).
Also read: Maharashtra announces squad for Ranji Trophy 2025-26; Prithvi Shaw, Jalaj Saxena included
