Duleep Trophy: Sooryavanshi named East Zone vice-captain, Ishan Kishan to lead

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been named vice-captain of the East Zone team for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2026, marking a significant step in his young cricketing career. The announcement comes as Ishan Kishan has been confirmed as the captain of the East Zone squad for the prestigious first-class tournament set to begin on August 23 in Bengaluru. This decision highlights the growing confidence placed in Sooryavanshi, who recently won the Player of the Series award during India’s tour of Zimbabwe and made his international debut earlier this month during the Test series against England. Sooryavanshi, a teenager from Maharashtra, will serve as deputy to Kishan, who brings experience and leadership qualities to the role. The East Zone squad features a blend of veteran players and emerging talents, including returning international stars such as Mohammed Shami, who last played for India during the 2025 Champions Trophy final. The inclusion of Shami adds depth to the bowling attack, while other notable players include Mukesh Kumar, Shahbaz Ahmed, and Anukul Roy, who had a standout performance during India A's tri-series in Sri Lanka. The East Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy 2026 includes Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sudip Gharami, Mohammed Shami, Mukesh Kumar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Suraj Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (vice-captain), Virat Singh, Kumar Kushagra, Shikhar Mohan, Subranshu Senapati, Abhijit Sarkar, Anukul Roy, and Denish Das. The standby list consists of Ayush Loharuka, Sridam Paul, Sambit S Baral, Sharandeep Singh, and Swastik Samal. The tournament, which is one of the most anticipated domestic events in Indian cricket, promises to showcase some of the country's best talent over the coming weeks. Notable absences from the East Zone squad include Riyan Parag and Akash Deep, both of whom are currently undergoing rehabilitation following surgeries. Parag is recovering from right shoulder surgery, while Akash Deep is still sidelined due to back surgery. Their absence means the East Zone will have to rely heavily on its existing core of players to compete effectively in the tournament. Sooryavanshi’s appointment as vice-captain has drawn attention from cricket analysts and fans alike. According to the East Zone selectors, the decision to entrust him with a leadership role is part of a broader strategy to develop young leaders within the domestic structure. “Giving him responsibility is part of the process,” one selector explained, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future captains through hands-on experience. Sooryavanshi is expected to open the batting alongside Easwaran, combining youth with experience in the top order. Kishan, known for his aggressive style of play and leadership skills, will be leading a squad that includes several players with international exposure. His presence is expected to provide stability and direction to the East Zone team. The combination of Kishan’s experience and Sooryavanshi’s energy could prove crucial in the tournament, especially given the high stakes associated with the Duleep Trophy. The East Zone squad will face competition from other zones in the tournament, each vying for supremacy in the domestic circuit. With the tournament kicking off in Bengaluru, the focus will be on how well the East Zone can perform under Kishan’s leadership and Sooryavanshi’s support. The selectors have expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and thrive in the challenging conditions that the tournament often presents. As preparations for the Duleep Trophy intensify, the spotlight remains firmly on Sooryavanshi and Kishan. Their roles will be pivotal in determining the success of the East Zone in the upcoming months. The tournament is expected to feature intense matches, strategic battles, and opportunities for emerging players to make their mark on the national stage.