How did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi perform as East Zone's stand-in captain in Duleep Trophy 2026?
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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was named the vice-captain of East Zone for Duleep Trophy 2026.
The Duleep Trophy 2026 semi-final between East Zone and Central Zone in Bengaluru has brought together a fascinating mix of established domestic performers who have emerged as India’s most talented domestic cricketers in the last year. East Zone entered the contest following their quarter-final triumph over Northeast Zone, while the Central Zone progressed to the semi-finals after having won the Duleep Trophy last season.
The semi-final marked another opportunity for young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to gain experience in the longest format of the game. The 15-year-old already attracted attention when he was named the vice-captain of the East Zone side. He then contributed with the ball after having missed out with his bat.
However, the match took an unexpected turn when East Zone captain Ishan Kishan had to leave the field after suffering an injury while wicket-keeping on Day 1. The development suddenly placed extraordinary responsibility on the youngster, who was named East Zone’s vice-captain.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivers as East Zone Captain in Duleep Trophy 2026
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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi took over as stand-in-captain during the 19th over of the Central Zone’s innings. This happened after Kishan was forced off the field with a finger injury. Kumar Kushagra from Jharkhand subsequently took over the wicket-keeping duties.
At just 15 years of age, this became Sooryavanshi’s first experience of leading a senior first-class side. Rather than being overwhelmed by the circumstances, the youngster looked composed while organising the players on the field.
The most eye-catching moment during the match was the DRS, with Central Zone opener Aryan Juyal batting on 46. Sooryavanshi had to opt for a review after an appeal from Mukesh Kumar. The decision, though taken late, eventually proved to be correct, as the DRS was ruled in their favour.
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This moment was more significant than just a wicket, as it proved to be a highlight of Sooryavanshi’s confidence and game awareness. However, his brief stint in captaincy does not seem to be proof that he is ready for permanent leadership.
On Day 2 of the semi-final, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi opened the innings alongside Abhimanyu Easwaran and provided a stunning half-century partnership. Sooryavanshi himself was off to a flyer and was scoring at a whopping strike rate. He hit a 42-ball half-century, putting opposition under massive pressure.
When did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi make his Duleep Trophy debut?
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made his Duleep Trophy debut for East Zone against North East Zone on August 23, 2026.
Has Vaibhav Sooryavanshi led any domestic side in his career?
Yes, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest skipper to lead a Duleep Trophy team, the East Zone in 2026.
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Subhomoy Datta has been a sports writer since 2022. He holds a BSc in Microbiology from Rastraguru Surendranath College, WBSU, and is currently pursuing his master’s at NIT Surathkal. With a growing interest in sports journalism, he enjoys following the game closely and turning sporting moments into stories for fans.