India’s teenage batting star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has added another milestone to his burgeoning career after being appointed as the vice-captain of the East Zone team for the Duleep Trophy 2026. Suryavanshi, who just won the Player of the Series award during India’s tour of Zimbabwe, will serve as the deputy for the Indian team Ishan Kishanhe was named captain of the East Zone for the prestigious red-ball tournament, which begins in Bengaluru on August 23.The vice-captaincy marks another major achievement for the youngster, who made his international debut during India’s tour of England earlier this month. After a series of impressive performances in Indian and domestic cricket, Sooryavanshi has now been appointed to a leadership role in one of India’s most important domestic tournaments.He is expected to open the batting alongside veteran Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is the most experienced player in the team with over 100 first-class appearances.
Ishan Kishan leads experienced East Zone side
Wicket-keeper batsman Ishan Kishan will captain the East Zone team, which blends experienced international cricketers with emerging talent. Veteran Indian pacer Mohammad Shami Returning to the domestic circuit after missing international competition since the 2025 Champions Trophy final. The 35-year-old featured for Bangladesh in the 2025-26 domestic season and also played 13 games for Lucknow Supergiants in the 2026 IPL.The squad also includes India fast bowler Mukesh Kumar, all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed, Jharkhand batsman Virat Singh, wicketkeeper Kumar Khushgla and spin all-rounder Anukul Roy, who impressed during India A’s successful tri-series in Sri Lanka earlier this year.
Riyan Parag, Akash Deep missed opportunities
EastEnders will lose two big names: Riyan Parag and Akash Deep, both of whom continue to recover after undergoing surgeries. Parag is recovering from right shoulder surgery, while Akash Deep remains sidelined after back surgery. Neither player was considered for selection as the recovery program continues.
Duleep Trophy East Zone Lineup 2026
Complete lineup: 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.spare: Ayush Loharuka, Sridam Paul, Sambit S Baral, Sharandeep Singh and Swastik Samal.Duleep Trophy, one of India’s most important first-class tournaments, will kick off on August 23 in Bengaluru.
