The countdown to India‘s 2026-27 domestic cricket season has officially begun, with the Duleep Trophy set to return in its traditional zonal format. As teams begin finalising their combinations for the prestigious red-ball competition, East Zone have unveiled a balanced and experienced squad packed with international stars and emerging talents. The selection has already generated plenty of excitement, particularly after one of Indian cricket’s brightest young prospects was handed a significant leadership responsibility.
Ishan Kishan to captain East Zone, Vaibhav Suryavanshi named deputy
East Zone have entrusted wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan with the captaincy for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, while 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been appointed vice-captain in a remarkable vote of confidence from the selectors.
Suryavanshi’s elevation to the deputy’s role marks another significant milestone in his rapidly progressing career. Despite being only 15, the youngster has already established himself as one of the most promising batting talents in Indian cricket, and the leadership role further underlines the faith the East Zone management has placed in him.
The batting department boasts an impressive blend of experience and youth. Abhimanyu Easwaran, one of the country’s most consistent first-class performers, will provide stability at the top of the order alongside Sudip Kumar Gharami. The middle order includes Virat Singh, Subhranshu Senapati and Denish Das, while reserve opener Shikhar Mohan adds valuable depth to the squad. Kumar Kushagra has been selected as the second wicketkeeper, offering additional flexibility behind the stumps.
Mohammed Shami spearheads experienced bowling attack
East Zone’s bowling unit appears equally formidable, with veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami set to lead the pace attack. His vast experience in red-ball cricket is expected to play a crucial role as the team aims to challenge for the title.
Joining Shami in the fast-bowling department is Mukesh Kumar, who has consistently impressed with his disciplined line and length in domestic and international cricket. The pace battery is further strengthened by Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal and Abhijit Sarkar, giving the side multiple seam options capable of exploiting different conditions.
The spin department features two quality all-rounders in Shahbaz Ahmed and Anukul Roy, both of whom bring balance with their ability to contribute with both bat and ball. However, East Zone will have to cope without two notable names. All-rounder Riyan Parag and India fast bowler Akash Deep have not been considered for selection as both continue their rehabilitation following surgeries.
The selection committee has also announced five standby players—Ayush Loharuka, Sridam Paul, Sambit S. Baral, Sharandeep Singh and Swastik Samal—who could be called upon if required during the tournament.
Duleep Trophy returns to classic zonal format
The 2026-27 Duleep Trophy will commence on August 23 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, marking the beginning of the new Indian domestic season. The tournament returns to its traditional six-zone knockout structure, featuring North, South, East, West, Central and North East Zone teams.
Two four-day quarter-finals will determine the remaining semi-finalists, while defending champions Central Zone and last season’s runners-up South Zone have earned direct entry into the final four. The championship match is scheduled to be played from September 6 to 10.
East Zone Squad for Duleep Trophy 2026: Abhimanyu Easwaran (CAB), Sudip Kumar Gharami (CAB), Shahbaz Ahmed (CAB), Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal (CAB), Mohammed Shami (CAB), Mukesh Kumar (CAB), Ishan Kishan (C, JSCA), Kumar Kushagra (JSCA), Shikhar Mohan (JSCA), Anukul Roy (JSCA), Virat Singh (JSCA), Subhranshu Senapati (OCA), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (VC, BCA), Denish Das (ACA) and Abhijit Sarkar (TCA)
Standbyes: Ayush Loharuka (BCA), Sridam Paul (TCA), Sambit S Baral (OCA), Sharandeep Singh (JSCA) and Swastik Samal (OCA)
