The Duleep Trophy 2025 quarterfinals got underway on Thursday at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, but not without notable absentees as both Central Zone and East Zone were forced into last-minute captaincy changes. Central Zone skipper Dhruv Jurel and East Zone captain Abhimanyu Easwaran were ruled out of their respective matches due to a groin niggle and fever.

Easwaran’s absence is a significant blow for the East Zone, who were already missing two key players, pacer Akash Deep and wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan. Facing a formidable North Zone side, East Zone will now be led by Assam all-rounder Riyan Parag, who has been promoted to captaincy duties in Easwaran’s absence.

According to information accessed by news agency PTI, Jurel, who is also among the standby players for India`s Asia Cup squad, sustained a groin strain during the team’s final training session. Despite reporting for the match, medical advice led to his withdrawal as a precautionary measure.