4 from Nagaland to represent NE Zone in Duleep Trophy 2025-26

In a significant boost to Nagaland’s cricketing profile, three players and one support staff from the state have been selected to represent the NorthEast Zone in the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025–26, scheduled to commence from August 28 in Bengaluru.
Seasoned cricketer Jonathan Rongsen will lead the NorthEast Zone as captain, marking his third appearance in the prestigious tournament. Joining him are debutants Sedezhalie Rupreo and Hem Bahadur Chetri, both of whom have earned their maiden call-up to the zonal squad.
Adding to the state’s representation, Dr Mowalong Kichu has been appointed as the Team Physio, tasked with maintaining the squad’s fitness and readiness throughout the competition.
The Duleep Trophy, instituted in 1961–62, is one of India’s premier domestic first-class tournaments. The NorthEast Zone, introduced in the 2018–19 season, continues to showcase emerging talent from the region. This year’s edition will feature six zonal teams—North, South, East, West, Central, and NorthEast—competing in a group-cum-knockout format.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed zonal convenors to ensure the inclusion of all available India players to uphold the tournament’s competitive standards.
The Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) has extended its congratulations to the selected players and support staff, stating that their inclusion reflects the growing strength of cricket in the state and the Northeast. “We are immensely proud of Jonathan, Sedezhalie, Hem Bahadur, and Mowalong for earning this opportunity,” the NCA said.
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Meanwhile, Chumoukedima District Cricket Association (CDCA) has extended heartfelt congratulations to senior players Jonathan Rongsen and Sedezhalie Rupreo, both registered with the district association, for their inclusion in the zonal squad.
Their selection marks a significant milestone in the district’s cricketing journey and reflects the growing talent pool in the region. Adding to the district’s representation, Dr Mowalong Kichu has been named Team Physio for the tournament, further highlighting Chumoukedima’s contribution beyond the playing field. CDCA also congratulated Hem Bahadur Chettri for his achievement in securing a place in the North East Zone team. The association conveyed its best wishes to all four individuals, expressing hope that their participation will bring further laurels to the state and inspire aspiring cricketers across Nagaland.