The Duleep Trophy 2025 began with a somewhat lackluster showing, as both quarter-final matches concluded in draws. Despite the presence of several established and up-and-coming Indian players, the initial round was marked by uneven performances and a focus on workload management, especially for those returning from international duty. However, individual brilliance did shine through, with Auqib Nabi's remarkable bowling and Mohammed Shami's comeback grabbing attention.

One of the most captivating moments of the opening round was Auqib Nabi's sensational spell for North Zone against East Zone. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer etched his name in Duleep Trophy history by claiming four wickets in four balls. Nabi's heroics helped North Zone gain a significant first-innings lead. His performance included dismissing Virat Singh, Manishi, and Mukhtar Hussain in consecutive deliveries to complete a hat-trick, before removing Mohammed Shami with the very next ball. He finished with 5/28.

Mohammed Shami's return to red-ball cricket was closely monitored as he played for East Zone. After a long layoff, Shami's fitness and readiness for the long format were under scrutiny. He bowled 23 overs in the first innings, taking 1/100. However, he only bowled 11 overs in the second innings and was off the field during the final session on day three. East Zone skipper Riyan Parag stated that Shami had a minor injury scare after he rolled his toe, but it was taken as a precaution.

The North Zone vs. East Zone match saw North Zone post 405 in their first innings, with contributions from Kanhaiya Wadhawan (76) and Ayush Badoni (63). In response, East Zone were restricted to 230, thanks to Nabi's impressive spell. North Zone then extended their lead, declaring their second innings at 658/4, with centuries from Ankit Kumar (198), Yash Dhull (133), and a double century from Ayush Badoni (204*). The match ended in a draw, with North Zone progressing to the semi-finals due to their first-innings lead.

The other quarter-final between Central Zone and North East Zone also ended in a draw. Central Zone dominated with scores of 532/4 declared and 331/7 declared. North East Zone were bundled out for 185 in their first innings but showed resilience in their second innings, finishing at 200/6. Central Zone advanced to the semi-finals based on their first-innings lead.

Several players exhibited impressive performances. For Central Zone, Danish Malewar scored a double century in the first innings, while Shubham Sharma scored a century in the second. Rajat Patidar also contributed with a brisk fifty. For North East Zone, Jehu Anderson and Rongsen Jonathan scored half-centuries in the second innings.

With the conclusion of the first round, the Duleep Trophy 2025 now moves into the semi-final stage. North Zone will face South Zone, while Central Zone will take on West Zone. These matches are scheduled to begin on September 4th at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The semi-finals promise a higher quality of cricket, with teams vying for a place in the final. The BCCI has announced that the final will be telecast live from September 11-15.