Duleep Trophy final Live: Kishan, Kushagra hold key as South Zone seek early breakthroughs

Kishan's Century Powers East Zone to Dominant Day 1 in Duleep Trophy Final 🏏

What a day of batting at the MA Chidambaram Stadium! East Zone has taken firm control of the Duleep Trophy 2026-27 final, finishing Day 1 on a massive 385/4 against South Zone.

The Star of the Show ✨

Captain Ishan Kishan was absolutely unplayable, finishing unbeaten on a well-earned 111. The lefthander reached his 10th first-class century and crossed 4,000 first-class runs in one brilliant innings. After taking his time early, he accelerated beautifully after his fifty—yes, he smashed T Vijay for a six on the very next ball! 💥

A Rock-solid Partnership

Kishan wasn't alone in the spotlight. Kumar Kushagra provided stellar support, going unbeaten on 63 (with 5 sixes and 4 fours). The pair put on a commanding 144-run stand in just 26.4 overs, thriving against South Zone's short-ball tactics.

Earlier Aggression

East Zone got a fiery start with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashing 44 off 37—he even tormented Siraj early, racking up 4, 6, and 4 in quick succession. Abhimanyu Easwaran added a fluent 72 before a heartbreaking run-out on his 31st birthday. And don't forget Shikhar Mohan's impressive 85 on his Duleep Trophy debut, which looked destined for a century before CV Milind clipped his stumps.

South Zone's Struggles

South Zone's bowlers were thoroughly undone. Mohammed Siraj finished with painful figures of 0/96 from 14 overs—a far cry from his usual pace. The side also fell short on the overrate, adding to their woes.

Looking Ahead

East Zone, chasing their first Duleep Trophy title in 13 years, walks into Day 2 with Kishan and Kushagra firmly in control. South Zone faces a tough task tomorrow to claw their way back. 🎯

Who's backing East Zone to lift the trophy? Let's discuss! 💬

Source: Times of India