Nagaland trio to represent NorthEast Zone in Duleep Trophy 2025-26

DIMAPUR — In a proud moment for Nagaland cricket, three players — Jonathan Rongsen, Sedezhalie Rupreo, and Hem Bahadur Chetri — have been selected to represent the NorthEast Zone in the prestigious Duleep Trophy 2025-26. Mowalong Kichu will join the squad as team physiotherapist.

The Duleep Trophy, one of India’s premier domestic first-class competitions since 1961-62, saw the introduction of the NorthEast Zone in 2018-19 to promote cricket in the region. This year’s selection further highlights the Northeast’s growing presence in national cricket.

Jonathan Rongsen, a seasoned campaigner, will captain the side in his third Duleep Trophy appearance. Promising youngster Sedezhalie Rupreo and debutant Hem Bahadur Chetri will also aim to make their mark in the tournament.

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The 2025-26 edition will feature six zonal teams — North, South, East, West, Central, and NorthEast — in a group-cum-knockout format. The BCCI has instructed zonal convenors to ensure the inclusion of available India players for top-level competition.

The Nagaland Cricket Association congratulated the selected players and support staff, calling their achievement “a testament to the rising talent in Nagaland and the Northeast.”