15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Makes History As East Zone Captain In Duleep Trophy

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reached another milestone in his rapidly rising cricket career on Sunday, taking over as captain of East Zone at just 15 during their Duleep Trophy semi-final against Central Zone in Bengaluru.

Sooryavanshi, who had been named East Zone's vice-captain for the tournament, was handed the captaincy after regular skipper Ishan Kishan suffered a wrist injury while keeping wickets.

Kishan Forced Off After Wrist Injury

The change in leadership came during the 19th over of Central Zone's first innings. Kishan was struck on his right wrist while keeping and received immediate treatment from the team physios.

He was subsequently forced to leave the field for further medical assessment and was later seen on the sidelines with his wrist heavily strapped.

With Kishan unavailable, Kumar Kushagra took over wicketkeeping duties, while Sooryavanshi assumed charge of the East Zone side.

Youngest Player Takes Charge Of Senior Team

At 15, Sooryavanshi's elevation to captain marks a significant milestone in Indian domestic cricket. The teenager found himself leading a team featuring experienced players, including Mohammed Shami, Mukesh Kumar and Abhimanyu Easwaran.

His appointment as vice-captain before the tournament had already attracted attention. East Zone selectors had backed the decision as part of a long-term plan to develop the youngster rather than as an immediate leadership requirement.

Sooryavanshi has been making rapid progress since his First-Class debut in early 2024. The Duleep Trophy semi-final is only his second appearance in the tournament and his 10th First-Class match.

Sooryavanshi Thrown Into Leadership Role

The teenager was immediately tasked with managing an experienced bowling attack as Central Zone reached 81 for three by the lunch interval.

While Kishan's recovery remains a concern for East Zone, Sooryavanshi's unexpected promotion has added another landmark to a career that has progressed at remarkable speed.

At an age when most players are still making their way through junior cricket, Sooryavanshi has now found himself leading a senior First-Class side featuring established domestic and international names.