Is Venkatesh Iyer Ready to Lead Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy?
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Synopsis
Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association has appointed Venkatesh Iyer as the captain of their men's senior team for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This tournament will showcase top players, including cricket legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. As Iyer steps into this critical role, the tournament promises to be a thrilling competition.
Key Takeaways
- Venkatesh Iyer appointed captain of Madhya Pradesh.
- Vijay Hazare Trophy scheduled in Ahmedabad.
- Participation of cricket legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
- Opportunity for emerging players to shine.
- Significant engagement by top players during a designated window.
Gwalior, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) announced on Thursday that Venkatesh Iyer has been appointed as the captain of their men's senior team for the Vijay Hazare Trophy league stage, scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad from December 24 to January 8, 2026.
The 30-year-old Iyer recently joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the mini-auction for Rs 7 crore after a successful stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders from 2021 to 2025, where he clinched an IPL title. His new role as captain of Madhya Pradesh represents a significant milestone in his career.
Other notable players in the squad include the seasoned Yash Dubey and Kumar Kartikeya, who transitioned to Rajasthan Royals after playing for Mumbai Indians from 2022 to 2024.
Shubham Sharma and Harpreet Singh are also included in the 16-member squad, with Madhav Tiwari being selected pending fitness clearance.
This upcoming edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 is particularly noteworthy due to the participation of elite cricketers like India internationals Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Prasidh Krishna, representing their respective states.
Virat has confirmed he will play for Delhi, while Rohit is available for Mumbai. KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna are part of the defending champions Karnataka squad.
The inclusion of these top players is mandated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which aims to ensure senior players engage in domestic cricket during the three-week window between India’s final T20I against South Africa on December 19 and the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026.
The Madhya Pradesh squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy league stage includes:
Venkatesh Iyer (Captain), Harsh Gawli, Himanshu Mantri (WK), Yash Dubey, Shubham Sharma, Harpreet Singh, Rishabh Chauhan, Ritik Tada, Kumar Kartikeya, Saransh Jain, Shivang Kumar, Aryan Pandey, Rahul Batham, Tripuresh Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Madhav Tiwari (subject to fitness).
Point of View
The appointment of Venkatesh Iyer as captain underscores the MPCA's commitment to nurturing talent while ensuring competitive representation in domestic cricket. The participation of elite players adds a layer of excitement to the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing the depth of talent available in Indian cricket. This tournament will not only serve as a platform for emerging players but also strengthen the regional teams in their quest for glory.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Vijay Hazare Trophy take place?
The Vijay Hazare Trophy will be held from December 24, 2025, to January 8, 2026.
Who is the captain of the Madhya Pradesh team?
Venkatesh Iyer has been appointed as the captain of the Madhya Pradesh team.
Which top players are participating in this edition?
Top players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Prasidh Krishna will be participating.
Where is the tournament being held?
The tournament will take place in Ahmedabad.
What is the significance of this tournament?
This tournament is crucial as it showcases the top talent in Indian cricket and allows senior players to engage in domestic matches.
