Mohammed Shami and Ishan Kishan to Lead East Zone in 2025-26 Duleep Trophy

In a notable development for Indian cricket, Mohammed Shami, the seasoned pacer, has been announced as part of the East Zone squad for the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy as reported by ESPNcricinfo. The 34-year-old last showcased his skills in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Ishan Kishan has been entrusted with the leadership of the 15-member East Zone team, and Abhimanyu Easwaran, recently in India's Test squad, steps in as vice-captain. The squad comprises key players, including seamers Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, along with all-rounder Riyan Parag.

The Duleep Trophy returns to its zonal roots this year, after last year's diversion to a format with four different squads. The tournament kicks off from August 28 to September 15, serving as the curtain-raiser for the Indian domestic season at Bengaluru's Centre of Excellence, with East Zone facing off against North Zone.

(With inputs from agencies.)