India teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has added another milestone to his fast-growing career after being named the vice-captain of the East Zone team for the 2026 Duleep Trophy. Fresh from winning the Player of the Series award during India’s tour of Zimbabwe, Sooryavanshi will be deputed to Ishan Kishanwho has been named as the captain of the East Zone side for the prestigious red ball tournament starting on August 23 in Bengaluru.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 string of impressive performances for India and in domestic cricket, Sooryavanshi has now been entrusted with a leadership role in one of India’s premier domestic tournaments.He is expected to open the batting alongside experienced Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, who returns as the most experienced player in the team with over 100 first-class appearances.
Ishan Kishan to lead an experienced East Zone team
Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan captains an East Zone side that combines experienced international cricketers with emerging talent. India’s veteran pacer Mohammed Shami returns to the domestic circuit after missing international action since the Champions Trophy final 2025. The 35-year-old featured for Bengal in the 2025-26 domestic season and also played 13 matches for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026.The squad also includes Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar, allrounder Shahbaz Ahmed, Jharkhand batter Virat Singh, wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra, and spin allrounder Anukul Roy, who impressed during India A’s successful tri-series in Sri Lanka earlier this year.
Riyan Parag, Akash Deep missing
The East Zone will be without two prominent names, Riyan Parag and Akash Deep, who both continue their rehabilitation after undergoing surgery. Parag is recovering from right shoulder surgery, while Akash Deep remains sidelined after back surgery. Neither player has been considered for selection while they continue their recovery programs.
East Zone Team for the 2026 Duleep Trophy
Full squad: 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 Sarykar, Denuk Dauks and Anuk.Standby: Ayush Loharuka, Sridam Paul, Sambit S Baral, Sharandeep Singh and Swastik Samal.The Duleep Trophy, one of India’s premier first-class competitions, gets underway in Bengaluru on August 23.