New Delhi, July 29: The East Zone has announced a 15-member squad for the 2026 Duleep Trophy on Wednesday. Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishaan Kishan has been appointed as the captain, while 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been selected as the vice-captain. The tournament is set to commence on August 23.
The team showcases a blend of experience and youthful energy. Senior Indian fast bowlers Mohammad Shami and Mukesh Kumar will strengthen the pace attack. Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Ahmed, and Anukul Roy will also play key roles as batsmen and all-rounders.
Ishaan Kishan enters this tournament following an impressive performance in India’s recent white-ball series against Zimbabwe. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman has played several aggressive innings at the top of the order, providing India with quick starts. His recent form and leadership experience make him an ideal choice to lead the East Zone team.
All eyes will be on 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who is rapidly advancing in Indian cricket after a stellar season. This young talent made a significant impact during the series against Zimbabwe, displaying remarkable composure against international bowling while maintaining his excellent form over the past year.
The batting unit also includes Sudip Kumar Gharami, Virat Singh, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Subhranshu Senapati, Danish Das, and Shikhar Mohan. Kumar Kushagra is included as an additional wicketkeeping option. Meanwhile, Shami returns to domestic cricket, bringing invaluable experience to the bowling attack alongside Mukesh Kumar and Abhijit Sarkar, while Shahbaz Ahmed and Anukul Roy are expected to play crucial all-rounder roles.
The East Zone team consists of: Ishaan Kishan (Captain), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Vice-Captain), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sudip Kumar Gharami, Shahbaz Ahmed, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Mohammad Shami, Mukesh Kumar, Kumar Kushagra, Shikhar Mohan, Anukul Roy, Virat Singh, Subhranshu Senapati, Danish Das, and Abhijit Sarkar.
Standby players include: Ayush Loharuka, Shridam Paul, Sambit S. Baral, Sharandeep Singh, and Swastik Samal.
Leave a Comment