Photo via Hindustan Times

In East’s Duleep win, Kishan and Shami make a statement

East Zone captured the 2026-27 Duleep Trophy in Chennai, ending a 13-year title drought thanks to a decisive 372-run first-innings cushion against South Zone. Skipper Ishan Kishan drove his squad to victory with an exceptional individual display, compiling 270 across 334 deliveries and 522 minutes before adding 80 runs in the second essay.

25 average while highlighting his refined focus, composure, and mutual squad support following his time outside the national side.

Veteran seamer Mohammed Shami, aged 36, also signaled his dedication to multi-day cricket during the contest. Overcoming initial wicketless figures of 0 for 140, the experienced bowler returned with heightened speed and swing in the second innings on an unresponsive Chepauk surface, ending with 1 for 47 in 16 overs while embracing the outing as an ongoing learning experience.