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

Sanat Sangwan, a 25-year-old southpaw batsman from Delhi, has been a consistent performer in the last two domestic seasons. Despite scoring only 385 runs in his debut Ranji Trophy season in 2024-25, Sangwan's contributions provided Delhi's batting lineup with some stability. In the 2025-26 season, he significantly improved, scoring 828 runs at an average of 69, including three centuries.

This impressive performance earned him a spot in the North Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, which begins on August 23 at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Sangwan explained that preparing for red-ball cricket requires extra effort during the off-season due to the different conditions and challenging situations he may face. He trains early in the morning when the wicket has a little moisture, replicating match-like conditions and practicing with new balls. Sangwan expressed his love for red-ball cricket, emphasizing its ability to test skill, patience, and fitness.

He aims to tire the bowlers in the first hour and then capitalize on their frustration, a strategy he has refined over his cricketing journey.

The influence of cricketing icons Virat Kohli and Lewis Hamilton is evident in Sangwan's life. He has a tattoo inspired by Hamilton and was gifted a bat by Kohli during his debut season. Both athletes have shaped Sangwan's mindset, focusing on patience, meditation, and control. Sangwan's grounded personality contrasts with his idolized stars, focusing on his role as a team player. He plans to continue working on his craft, avoiding distractions like scoreboard checks, and maintaining his calm demeanor.