North Zone defeats West Zone to reach Duleep Trophy semifinals

North Zone has secured a place in the Duleep Trophy 2026 semifinals after defeating West Zone by 52 runs. The victory was driven by a dominant bowling performance on the final day, where North Zone dismissed West Zone for 234 runs.

Abid Mushtaq was named Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling, taking a total of nine wickets across both innings (five in the first and four in the second).

West Zone appeared to be in a strong position during their second innings chase of 287 runs. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad scored 66 runs, and he shared a significant 111-run partnership with Mushir Khan, who contributed 96 runs. However, the momentum shifted abruptly following Gaikwad's run out, after which West Zone lost four wickets in less than seven overs.

North Zone's first innings total was 251, while West Zone was bowled out for 187 in response. North Zone then posted 222 in their second innings to set the target. North Zone will now face South Zone in the semifinals.