North Zone Takes Commanding Lead in Duleep Trophy Semi-Final

In an intense battle during the Duleep Trophy 2026 semi-final, North Zone has taken a commanding 139-run lead over South Zone. With key performances from players like Tilak Varma and Sanat Sangwan, the match is poised for an exciting conclusion. As North Zone aims to set a challenging target, the final day promises to be thrilling. Will South Zone mount a comeback, or will North Zone secure their place in the final? Read on for all the details.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 2, 2026, 00:00 IST

North Zone Dominates Day 3 of Duleep Trophy Semi-Final

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], September 1: North Zone has established a significant advantage of 139 runs in their second innings against South Zone, concluding the third day of the Duleep Trophy 2026 semi-final at 256/7.

The day's play commenced with South Zone captain Tilak Varma adding vital runs alongside 11th batter Kavuri Saiteja, who managed to score 13 runs before being dismissed by Abid Mushtaq. Their partnership yielded 42 runs for the 10th wicket, aiding South Zone in reaching 312 runs in their first innings.

Varma remained not out at 116, having faced 250 balls and struck nine boundaries during his resilient innings. His collaboration with Shreyas Gopal, which produced 175 runs for the sixth wicket, was crucial in stabilizing South Zone's innings and securing a first-innings lead that could be pivotal if the match concludes in a draw on Day 4.

After limiting South Zone to 312 in their first innings, North Zone commenced their second innings with openers Sanat Sangwan and Qamran Iqbal, who added 25 runs before Saiteja dismissed Iqbal for just four runs.

Sangwan (76) then formed a solid partnership of 104 runs for the second wicket with Ayush Doseja (52). Both players reached their half-centuries before being dismissed.

Ayush Badoni also made a valuable contribution, scoring 31 runs off 37 balls, including four boundaries.

Skipper Kanhaiya Wadhawan and Abdul Samad each scored 14 runs, while Abid Mushtaq managed only one run before being dismissed by Shreyas Gopal.

Nishant Sindhu (20*) and Anshul Kamboj (29*) remained unbeaten when the umpires called stumps on Day 3. North Zone is poised with a 139-run lead, aiming to set a target exceeding 200 runs for their opponents on the final day.

For South Zone, MD Nidheesh, Kavuri Saiteja, and Gopal each took two wickets, while Vidwath Kaverappa claimed one wicket.

The winner of this match will face the Ishan Kishan-led East Zone in the final, following Mukesh Kumar's recognition as Player of the Match for his impressive seven-wicket haul.