countdown to IndiaThe 2026-27 domestic cricket season has officially started duleep trophy Set to return to its traditional regional format. As teams begin to finalize their combinations for the prestigious red-ball competition, eastern region have unveiled a balanced and experienced squad full of international stars and emerging talent. The selection has already generated a lot of excitement, especially after one of the brightest young prospects in Indian cricket has been handed an important leadership responsibility.
Ishan Kishan appointed captain of East Zone, Vaibhav Suryavanshi appointed deputy
East Zone has entrusted the responsibility to the wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan With captaincy for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, the 15-year-old is a batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi Has been appointed vice-captain in a remarkable vote of confidence from the selectors.
Suryavanshi’s promotion to the post of Deputy is another important milestone in his rapidly growing career. Despite being only 15 years old, the youngster has already established himself as one of the most promising batting talents in Indian cricket, and the leadership role further underlines the confidence placed in him by the East Zone management.
The batting department has an impressive mix of experience and youth. Abhimanyu EaswaranOne of the country’s most consistent first-class performers, will provide stability at the top of the order Sudeep Kumar Gharami. middle order included Virat Singh, Subhranshu Senapati And danish slaveWhile reserve opener Shikhar Mohan Adds valuable depth to the squad. Kumar Kushgra Has been selected as the second wicketkeeper, providing additional flexibility behind the stumps.
Mohammed Shami leads the experienced bowling attack
East Zone’s bowling unit looks equally strong with India’s experienced fast bowlers Mohammed Shami Ready to lead a fast attack. His vast experience in red-ball cricket is expected to play a vital role as the team aims to challenge for the title.
Shami is included in the fast bowling department Mukesh KumarWho has consistently impressed with his disciplined line and length in domestic and international cricket. Pace battery has been further strengthened Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal And Abhijeet SarkarGiving the side multiple seam options capable of exploiting different situations.
The spin department includes two quality all-rounders Shahbaz Ahmed And Anukul RoyBoth of them 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 Indian fast bowlers sky lamp Was not considered for selection as both are continuing rehabilitation after surgery.
The selection committee has also announced five standby players-Ayush Loharuka, Shridam Paul, Sambit S. Baral, Sharandeep Singh And Swastika Samal-Who can be called if needed during the tournament.
Also read: West Zone squad named for Duleep Trophy 2026-27; Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead
Duleep Trophy returns to classic regional format
The 2026-27 Duleep Trophy will begin on August 23 at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru, marking the beginning of the new Indian domestic season. The tournament returned to its traditional six-zone knockout structure, consisting of teams from North, South, East, West, Central and North East zones.
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 to be played from 6 to 10 September.
East Zone team for Duleep Trophy 2026: Abhimanyu Easwaran (CAB), Sudeep 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 Suryavanshi (VC, BCA), Danish Das (ACA) and Abhijit Sarkar (TCA)
Stan by: Ayush Loharuka (BCA), Sridam Paul (TCA), Sambit S Baral (OCA), Sharandeep Singh (JSCA) and Swastik Samal (OCA).
Also read: Duleep Trophy to kick off season as BCCI unveils massive 2026-27 domestic calendar
