Duleep Trophy: Sanat Sangwan, a Kohli & Lewis Hamilton fan, ready for next challenge

Sanat Sangwan, a 25-year-old left-handed batsman from Delhi, is set to represent the North Zone in the Duleep Trophy, beginning on August 23 at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Known for his consistency in domestic cricket, Sangwan has emerged as one of Delhi’s most reliable performers over the past two seasons. His standout performances in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, where he scored 828 runs at an average of 69, including three centuries, have solidified his place in the national team setup for the upcoming tournament. Sangwan’s journey to success began with a modest start in his debut Ranji Trophy season in 2024-25, where he managed just 385 runs. Despite the limited returns, his ability to anchor the innings and provide stability to Delhi’s fragile batting lineup caught the attention of selectors. This led to a marked improvement in the following season, where he showcased greater maturity and technical precision. His performance earned him a coveted spot in the North Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, marking a significant milestone in his career. Born and raised in New Delhi, Sangwan has developed a deep passion for cricket, influenced by his admiration for both Virat Kohli and Formula One legend Lewis Hamilton. When asked about the inspiration behind his name, derived from Sri Lankan icon Sanath Jayasuriya, he laughed off the notion, saying, “Arey nahi nahi!” His dedication to the sport, however, is evident in the hours he spends refining his technique and adapting to the unique challenges of red-ball cricket. To prepare for the demands of red-ball cricket, Sangwan follows a rigorous training regimen. He begins his practice sessions at around 8 am, taking advantage of the slightly moist pitch to simulate match conditions. By replicating the challenges faced during actual games, he ensures that his skills remain sharp under pressure. He insists on facing multiple new balls in the nets, a strategy that helps him acclimate to the unpredictable nature of the format. “I try to face more new balls in the nets so that the situation doesn’t feel easy for me in a match,” he explains. Sangwan’s approach to red-ball cricket is rooted in patience and discipline. He emphasizes the importance of conserving energy in the early stages of the innings, focusing on wearing down the bowlers rather than chasing quick runs. His batting mantra, “Tire the bowlers in the first hour,” reflects his strategic mindset. “In red-ball cricket, I try to select my shots according to what I have prepared,” he says. “I don’t play the cover drive early in my innings. I try to avoid cutting the ball as much as I can. I don’t play away from my body. The more you play away from your body early on, the chances of getting out increase. If you stay closer to the ball, then the chances of getting out are lower.” Despite lacking the elegance of other left-handed batters, Sangwan’s focus and temperament make him a formidable opponent. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute plans with precision has become a hallmark of his game. As he prepares for the Duleep Trophy, Sangwan remains confident in his preparations and eager to prove himself on the biggest stage. With the tournament set to begin soon, fans will be watching closely to see how he fares against the best players in the country.