Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 29: Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been named captain of a strong 15-member East Zone squad for the 2026 Duleep Trophy, while teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been appointed vice-captain for the tournament beginning on August 23.

The squad blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent. Senior India pacer Mohammed Shami returns to bolster the pace attack alongside Mukesh Kumar, while Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Ahmed and Anukul Roy add depth to the batting and all-round departments.

Kishan takes charge after an impressive outing in India's recent white-ball series against Zimbabwe, where he played several aggressive knocks at the top of the order. His recent form and leadership credentials earned him the captaincy.

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will also be under the spotlight after his breakthrough performances in the Zimbabwe series. The young batter impressed with his composure against international bowling, continuing the rich vein of form that has marked his rapid rise in Indian cricket.

The batting line-up also features Sudip Kumar Gharami, Virat Singh, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Subhranshu Senapati, Denish Das and Shikhar Mohan, while Kumar Kushagra has been included as the second wicketkeeping option.

Shami's return adds significant experience to the bowling unit, with Mukesh Kumar and Abhijit Sarkar completing the pace attack. Shahbaz Ahmed and Anukul Roy are expected to play key all-round roles.

East Zone squad: Ishan Kishan (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (vice-captain), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sudip Kumar Gharami, Shahbaz Ahmed, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Mohammed Shami, Mukesh Kumar, Kumar Kushagra, Shikhar Mohan, Anukul Roy, Virat Singh, Subhranshu Senapati, Denish Das and Abhijit Sarkar.

Stand-by players: Ayush Loharuka, Sridam Paul, Sambit S. Baral, Sharandeep Singh and Swastik Samal.