Danish Malewar’s Duleep Trophy heroics signal a bright future for Indian cricket

The 2025–26 domestic cricket season has only just begun, but Danish Malewar has already stolen the spotlight and in some style. Making his Duleep Trophy debut for Central Zone, the 21-year-old Vidarbha batter announced his arrival on the national red-ball stage with a sensational unbeaten 198 in Bengaluru. Calm, composed, and classy, the innings was a statement of intent from a youngster destined for bigger things.

From Vidarbha’s Hope to Domestic Mainstay

Malewar’s journey has been nothing short of meteoric. Having made his first-class debut in late 2024, he rose quickly through the ranks with performances that showcased both talent and maturity. His breakout moment came in the 2024 Ranji Trophy semi-final against a dominant Mumbai side, where his gritty 79 and 29 helped Vidarbha secure an 80-run victory.

In the final, he truly stamped his authority. Against Kerala, Malewar delivered a match-winning 153 in the first innings and 73 in the second, almost single-handedly guiding Vidarbha to another prestigious Ranji Trophy title. By season’s end, he had amassed 783 runs at an average of 52, making him Vidarbha’s third-highest scorer.

Temperament Beyond His Years

What makes Malewar stand out isn’t just the runs, it’s how he scores them. Batting at No. 3, arguably the toughest spot in red-ball cricket, he builds innings brick by brick, much like a young Cheteshwar Pujara or Rahul Dravid. He grinds bowlers down patiently, and once set, unfurls an array of fluent strokes.

In just 10 first-class matches, Malewar has already crossed fifty five times, with multiple centuries to his name and an astounding average of 65.4, numbers that speak of discipline, hunger, and immense potential.

Looking Ahead

If his Duleep Trophy heroics are anything to go by, Danish Malewar is well on his way to becoming one of India’s brightest red-ball prospects a composed, dependable batter the national side has long been searching for.