Published By: Sayan Guha

Duleep Trophy: Who Are the Five Players Replacing Major Names in India A?

With big names off to Bangladesh, a fresh squad takes the reins

You've undoubtedly heard the news if you're a cricket fan. India A is undergoing a facelift ahead of the next round of the Duleep Trophy. With players such as Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Akaksh Deep, and Kuldeep Yadav boarding an aircraft for the Test series against Bangladesh, there has been a significant squad update with veteran Mayank Agarwal given the captaincy.

And let's be honest: things become intriguing when experienced players make way for newcomers. You start to wonder, "Who is filling those shoes? "Are they up to the challenge?" So, let's get into the specifics.

The big five replacements

The selectors didn't waste time. Five new players have been called up, each with their own set of talents and some auspicious numbers to support them. But don't worry; I've done your homework for you. Here's an update on the new faces filling the boots of India's heavyweights.

Pratham Singh: The Railways run machine

Pratham Singh, a left-handed opener who has quietly made a reputation for himself, will replace Shubman Gill. If you're unfamiliar with him, imagine an engine that keeps running. That's Pratham.


He has a first-class average of 35.63 and has scored ten fifties and a century in 29 appearances. But what truly stands out is his performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he scored four consecutive fifties. The man is greedy for runs.

Akshay Wadkar: Vidarbha's dependable keeper

KL Rahul isn't simple to follow. But Akshay Wadkar, Vidarbha's steady wicketkeeper-batter, appears to be up to the task. This guy can handle pressure. He hit a century in his debut Ranji Trophy final, propelling his team to win. Talk about nerves of steel!


With a first-class average of 49.88, Akshay is more than simply a safe pair of gloves; he's a batter who can keep the ship steady when things turn rocky.

SK Rasheed: The U-19 star ready for prime time

SK Rasheed, a young and promising player, will replace Dhruv Jurel. You would recognise this name if you followed the U-19 World Cup 2022. He was India's vice captain and scored several key runs, particularly in the final against England, blasting a fifty. It's one thing to thrive in age-group cricket, but the real question is whether he can step up to the senior level.


He has had a modest start to his first-class career, averaging slightly under 29. But don't be fooled. Rasheed has shown moments of brilliance, especially in T20s, when he averages more than 42 and has a strike rate of 137.67.

Shams Mulani: Mumbai's spin maestro

Replacing Kuldeep Yadav is no easy assignment, but Shams Mulani could be the guy for the job. He is a left-arm spinner who has been Mumbai's go-to player in domestic cricket. Mulani has already taken 180 wickets in just 38 first-class matches.


His 7/94 record in one bout is legendary. Even more astonishing is his versatility. He's scored 16 fifties in first-class cricket, so he's no slouch with the bat.

Aaqib Khan: The young pace sensation

Finally, Aaqib Khan steps in for Akash Deep. Aaqib may be relatively unknown, but this young pacer has quietly built a name.


He's already taken 29 wickets in just 11 first-class matches. Not bad for someone who is only just out of his teens, right?