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East Zone vs South Zone, Final Commentary, Live Updates

EZ vs SZ, 2026 - First-class Live Commentary

East Zone vs South Zone Scorecard

Play In Progress

Final MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai , Sep 06, 2026

East Zone 247/4 (54.3)

CRR: 4.53

South Zone Yet to Bat

East Zonewon the toss and elected to bat

EZ 247/4 (54.3)

54.2

Chama Milind To Kumar Kushagra

Bumper, over off, Kumar Kushagra ducks under it.

54.1

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Chama Milind comes around the wicket and bangs the deck hard to get the bounce, over the leg stump. Ishan Kishan pulls it to the left of deep backward square leg for a single.

We are back for the final session on Day 1. The umpires are in their places and so are the players of South Zone. Ishan Kishan and Kumar Kushagra are set to resume their stay at the crease as well. It will be Chama Milind to start proceedings with the ball. Let's play...

... DAY 1, SESSION 3 ...

Milind, the sole bright spot - It was yet another enduring session for most of the 2 hours for the South Zone bowlers, and Mohammed Siraj kept leaking runs, even though he did improve. Tripurana Vijay gave his side a breakthrough not too late after Lunch, but they failed to capitalize. Towards the fag end of the session, Chama Milind broke the frustrating stand between Mohan and Kishan, giving his team a way back into the contest with his second wicket of the contest. The onus will now be on the bowlers of South Zone to build on that late wicket, whereas Ishan Kishan and co will be looking to zoom further ahead. Stay tuned as the final session is set to begin at 9.30 am GMT (3 pm IST).

One standout partnership - The post-Lunch session was marked by the stand between Shikhar Mohan and Ishan Kishan. After Sudip Gharami fell early in the session, Mohan took charge and brought up a fine half-century. Alongside Kishan, Mohan added a fourth-wicket stand of 94 runs before Mohan got out late in the session, missing out on a ton by just 15 runs. Kishan has looked good and will be looking to lead from the front in the final session of the day.

9.12 am GMT (2.42 pm IST) - TEA, DAY 1 - A much more riveting session of red-ball cricket comes to an end and at Tea on Day 1, East Zone are still ahead, but South Zone won't be too displeased heading into the break. With 246 runs already on the board, East Zone have certainly kept the scoring rate high, but they would look to keep wickets in hand and see off the final session.

End Of The Over 54 : 246/4

5 Runs

053.1
053.2
053.3
053.4
153.5
453.6

K. Kushagra

4 (5)

I. Kishan

33 (53)

M. Siraj

11-1-70-0

53.6

Mohammed Siraj To Kumar Kushagra

FOUR! Classy way to end the session! Much fuller and on middle. Kumar Kushagra presents the full face of the bat and drives it gloriously back past the bowler for a boundary. THAT WILL BE TEA ON DAY 1!

53.5

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Back of a length and around leg, Ishan Kishan hooks it to deep fine leg for a single.

53.4

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Hard length and on off, Ishan Kishan keeps it out to the off side.

53.3

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Short of a length and on off, Ishan Kishan hops up ride the bounce and blocks it out.

53.2

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Another bumper, on middle, Ishan Kishan ducks under it well this time.

53.1

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Oh...some spice! Mohammed Siraj bangs in a quick and sharp bouncer, on middle. Ishan Kishan hops up and then tries to duck under it. He keeps his bat hanging up, but luckily the ball goes over it to the keeper. Siraj and Kishan exchange a few words in banter.

Mohammed Siraj is brought back in for a late burst of one over before Tea.

End Of The Over 53 : 241/4

0 Runs

052.1
W 52.2
052.3
052.4
052.5
052.6

K. Kushagra

0 (4)

I. Kishan

32 (48)

C. Milind

8-1-28-2

52.6

Chama Milind To Kumar Kushagra

Yet another short ball, on middle, Kumar Kushagra sways away from the line of it. A wicket-maiden over!

52.5

Chama Milind To Kumar Kushagra

A bit fuller and around off, Kumar Kushagra opens the bat face and guides it to backward point.

52.4

Chama Milind To Kumar Kushagra

Short of a length and just down the leg side, Kumar Kushagra leaves it alone.

52.3

Chama Milind To Kumar Kushagra

Greets the new batter with a bouncer, on leg, Kumar Kushagra ducks under it.

Kumar Kushagra is the next batter in.

52.2

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan OUT!

OUT! DRAGGED ON! That's heartbreak for the youngster as he falls 15 short of a well-deserved ton. Chama Milind lands this short of a length and just on off. Shikhar Mohan tries to roll his wrists and pull it away but closes the bat face a bit early as the ball holds up on the surface. He gets a bottom edge as the ball crashes back onto the stumps. Mohan looks up to the skies in disappointment, but has to walk back now. East Zone are 241/4 now.

52.1

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

A bouncer at 129.2kph, on middle, Shikhar Mohan drops his hands and lets it go to the keeper.

End Of The Over 52 : 241/3

6 Runs

051.1
451.2
151.3
051.4
151.5
051.6

I. Kishan

32 (48)

S. Mohan

85 (118)

S. Gopal

11-2-40-0

51.6

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Gives this one some more air, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan blocks it down the pitch.

51.5

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flatter, full and around off, Shikhar Mohan goes down and sweeps it to deep square leg for one.

51.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Slows it up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan defends it on the front foot.

51.3

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Flighted, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan uses his feet and drills it to long on for a single.

51.2

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

FOUR! You cannot bowl there! Shreyas Gopal bowls a half-tracker, on middle. Ishan Kishan makes the most of it, rocking back and pulling it away to the deep square leg fence for a boundary.

51.1

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Floated, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan stays deep inside his crease and dead-bats it.

End Of The Over 51 : 235/3

8 Runs

050.1
050.2
050.3
350.4
450.5
150.6

I. Kishan

27 (44)

S. Mohan

84 (116)

C. Milind

7-0-28-1

50.6

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Short again and on leg, Ishan Kishan pulls it away again, but Devdutt Padikkal at square leg dives to his right to make the stop. They cross.

50.5

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

FOUR! Excellent shot! Dug into the surface, on the leg stump line again. Ishan Kishan lifts his front leg up and pulls it away to the deep square leg fence for a boundary.

50.4

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Buzzers! Back of a length and around leg, Shikhar Mohan pulls it away towards deep backward square leg for a single. Mohammed Siraj picks it up and throws it at the bowler's end, but misses and with no one to back it up, the batters get a couple of extra runs.

50.3

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Chama Milind bangs this into the pitch, around middle again, Shikhar Mohan sways away once more.

50.2

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Another bumper, on middle and off, Shikhar Mohan sways away from it.

50.1

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

A bouncer at 127.2 kph, on middle, Shikhar Mohan ducks under it.

End Of The Over 50 : 227/3

1 Runs

049.1
049.2
049.3
049.4
149.5
049.6

I. Kishan

22 (42)

S. Mohan

81 (112)

S. Gopal

10-2-34-0

49.6

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Flatter, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan pushes it back to the bowler.

49.5

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Goes short and on leg, Shikhar Mohan moves back and nudges it through backward square leg for a single.

49.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Floated, full and around leg, Shikhar Mohan is solid in his defense.

49.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Slows it up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan tucks it through the short leg region.

49.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan prods forward and blocks it out.

49.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted, full and on middle and leg, Shikhar Mohan turns it to the leg side.

End Of The Over 49 : 226/3

4 Runs

148.1
048.2
148.3
248.4
048.5
048.6

I. Kishan

22 (41)

S. Mohan

80 (107)

C. Milind

6-0-20-1

48.6

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Pitched up and around off, Ishan Kishan shuffles across and fends it off the bottom half of the bat to mid off.

48.5

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Fuller in length and on middle, Ishan Kishan gets forward and knocks it towards mid off.

48.4

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Short of a length and on off, Ishan Kishan rides the bounce and runs it down to deep third for another run.

48.3

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Touch fuller and angling into the pads, Shikhar Mohan glances it to deep fine leg for a single.

48.2

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Good length and around off, keeps a bit low, Shikhar Mohan stabs it out towards cover-point.

48.1

Chama Milind To Ishan Kishan

Back of a length, at the batter, tucked away in front of square leg for a single.

Tilak Varma opts to bring pace back to the fore. Chama Milind (5-0-16-1) is back on.

The stand between Shikhar Mohan and Ishan Kishan has now moved to 75 runs and they are piling on the misery on South Zone.

End Of The Over 48 : 222/3

12 Runs

647.1
047.2
647.3
047.4
047.5
047.6

S. Mohan

79 (105)

I. Kishan

19 (37)

S. Gopal

9-2-33-0

47.6

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted ball around middle, Mohan strides out and blocks it off.

47.5

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Good length on the stumps, blocked off the back foot by Mohan.

47.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Dragged length on leg, holds a bit in the deck. Moahn looks to flick but gets a leading edge to the on side.

47.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

SIX MORE! Floated up wide of the off stump, Mohan takes a step or two ahead and slams it flat over long off for another maximum. Double Nelson is also up for East Zone.

47.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up again, in and around off, Mohan lunges to defend.

47.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

SIX! BANG! Tossed up on off, a bit too full. Shikhar Mohan gets his head down, leans forward and whacks it with the spin, over long on for a biggie.

Some refreshments for the batters in the Chennai heat.

End Of The Over 47 : 210/3

6 Runs

046.1
046.2
146.3
046.4
446.5
146.6

S. Mohan

67 (99)

I. Kishan

19 (37)

T. Vijay

16-2-74-1

46.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

On the shorter side and outside off. This is cut away to deep point for a run.

46.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! Up and over, lovely shot! Tossed up, a bit wide outside off. Shikhar Mohan just extends his arms and hammers it over covers for a boundary.

46.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Slower one, flighted up on off at 82.1 kph. Mohan gets forward to defend but get more of an inside edge.

46.3

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Good length, but wide outside off. Kishan slaps it away to deep cover for a single.

46.2

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Fuller now on off, turns away a touch. Kishan gets halfway forward and edges it down past first slip.

46.1

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Vijay bowls it on a length, sliding it onto off stump. Kishan rocks back to defend.

End Of The Over 46 : 204/3

2 Runs

145.1
045.2
045.3
045.4
045.5
145.6

I. Kishan

18 (34)

S. Mohan

62 (96)

S. Gopal

8-2-21-0

45.6

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Flighted on leg, turns in a bit. Kishan leans on early but then adjusts and nudges it around the corner on the leg side for a single.

45.5

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Fuller delivery around off, Kishan leans forward to make the block.

45.4

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Fuller now, at 81.9 clicks, on leg. Kishan wrists it across to short mid-wicket.

45.3

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Good length on off and middle, Kishan stays put and just jabs it down to the bowler.

45.2

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Slightly shorter, turning into the legs. Kishan flicks it off the pads to leg gully.

45.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flatter one around off, Mohan hops back and dabs it down behind point for a single.

End Of The Over 45 : 202/3

5 Runs

044.1
444.2
044.3
044.4
044.5
144.6

S. Mohan

61 (95)

I. Kishan

17 (29)

T. Vijay

15-2-68-1

44.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Just outside off, eased away to deep cover for a single.

44.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller one, closer to the off stump line, Mohan blocks it off.

44.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

That's turned as well. A bit fuller and outside off, darts away off the deck and Mohan ends up playing inside the line.

44.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Full and straight, Mohan lunges to defend.

44.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! Risky shot given what we saw on the previous delivery. Flighted delivery, drifted into the stumps, Shikhar Mohan leans on and flicks it against the turn, up and over wide mid-wicket for a boundary. 200 UP FOR EAST ZONE.

44.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Oh, genuine turn and bounce! Not all that full, drifted in from wide outside off. The ball pitches and turns away sharply pas the left-hander's willow.

End Of The Over 44 : 197/3

3 Runs

243.1
043.2
043.3
143.4
043.5
043.6

I. Kishan

17 (29)

S. Mohan

56 (89)

S. Gopal

7-2-19-0

43.6

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Straighter in line, attacking middle stumps. Ishan Kishan blocks it off.

43.5

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Fuller and a bit flatter around off, Kishan gets forward and smothers it away.

43.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Dragged length, straighter too. Mohan works it off the back foot to deep mid-wicket for one. The 50-run stand is also up between these two.

43.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted again and around off, Mohan moves past the off stump and defends it back to the bowler.

43.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Floated fuller and outside of, Mohan leans on and bunts it to the off side.

43.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Good length, turning into the batter. Shikhar Mohan goes back and across to the leg stump, jabbing it down in front of mid-wickt for a couple of runs.

End Of The Over 43 : 194/3

1 Runs

042.1
042.2
042.3
042.4
042.5
142.6

S. Mohan

53 (85)

I. Kishan

17 (27)

T. Vijay

14-2-63-1

42.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Nicely tosed up, throwing it wide of the off stump. Mohan plays the square drive through point and picks up a single. This partnership now moves to 47.

42.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

And again! Fuller delivery on the stumps, Shikhar Mohan gets a big stride in and keeps it out.

42.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Full and straight, blocked to the left of the bowler.

42.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted one, a bit of drift in towards the stumps. Mohan lunges and defnds it down the track.

42.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller and on off, blocked off the front foot by Mohan.

42.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

There to be put away, but Mohan finds the fielder. Fractionally short, but well outside off. Shikhar Mohan rocks back and smacks it straight to the cover fielder.

End Of The Over 42 : 193/3

2 Runs

141.1
041.2
141.3
041.4
041.5
041.6

I. Kishan

17 (27)

S. Mohan

52 (79)

S. Gopal

6-2-16-0

41.6

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

A bit flatter and around off, Kishan hops to the off side and pats it down with a straight bat to the left of the bowler.

41.5

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Slower through the air, on off and turning in. Kishan covers the line well and keeps it out.

41.4

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Tossed up fuller on leg, Kishan leans on and drives it back to the bowler.

41.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Nagging length around off, Mohan opts to play it off the back foot and defends it towards gully for a single.

41.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Floated up on a length, turning into the pads. Mohan is a bit early into the flick and gets a leading edge down to mid off.

41.1

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

A tad shorter, angling across off. Kishan camps back and taps it towards cover for a single.

End Of The Over 41 : 191/3

1 Runs

040.1
140.2
040.3
040.4
040.5
040.6

S. Mohan

51 (77)

I. Kishan

16 (23)

T. Vijay

13-2-62-1

40.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller and on off, blocked off by Mohan, who seems to have gone on the defensive now.

40.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Bowled at a brisk pace, outside off and there's some turn on offer. Mohan leaves it alone.

40.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Fullish delivery on middle, played with a straight bat and back down the pitch.

40.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Ooh, again that odd ball staying low. Drifted into middle and leg, holds a bit and stays low. Shikhar Mohan does well to keep it out.

40.2

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Dragged length outside off, Kishan rocks back and smacks it to cover. The fielder fumbles and allows Kishan to scamper across for the single.

40.1

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Bowled fuller, landing it around off. Kishan leans across to block.

End Of The Over 40 : 190/3

1 Runs

139.1
039.2
039.3
039.4
039.5
039.6

S. Mohan

51 (73)

I. Kishan

15 (21)

S. Gopal

5-2-14-0

39.6

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller delivery around off, blocked off. The spinners are now going through their overs quickly.

39.5

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted again, outside off, but not all that full. Shikhar Mohan reaches out in front and keeps it out.

39.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up, trying to angle it across off. Mohan gets a good stride forward and plays it back to the bowler.

39.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Nice and full, in and around off. Mohan lunges to defend.

39.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Floated up again, outside off, Mohan leans on and drives it to mid off.

39.1

Shreyas Gopal To Ishan Kishan

Tossed up on off, Kishan frees his arms and swats it along the turf, and down to long on for a single.

DRINKS BREAK! Another hour has gone by, and only 11 overs have been bowled in it. It is still better than the first session, where we saw 27 overs in 2.5 hours. In terms of the cricket itself, East Zone are still in a strong position and South Zone haven't capitalized on that early wicket in the session. Shikhar Mohan is well set and Ishan Kishan has also gotten his eye in. It will be a test of mettle for the South Zone's bowlers as they look to make inroads.

End Of The Over 39 : 189/3

7 Runs

438.1
038.2
038.3
038.4
238.5
138.6

I. Kishan

14 (20)

S. Mohan

51 (68)

T. Vijay

12-2-61-1

38.6

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Slows it up, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan eases it down to long off for one.

38.5

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Flatter, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan backs away and drives it wide of long off for a brace.

38.4

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Drags his length back and around off, turns away with some bounce, Ishan Kishan steers it away to point.

38.3

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Floated, shortish and on middle, Ishan Kishan keeps it out to the leg side.

38.2

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Flatter, short and on middle and leg, Ishan Kishan stabs it to the left of the bowler.

38.1

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

FOUR! Short and punished! Tripurana Vijay lands this almost at his own feet, around middle. Ishan Kishan has all the time in the world to rock back and heave it away to the deep mid-wicket fence for a boundary.

End Of The Over 38 : 182/3

0 Runs

037.1
037.2
037.3
037.4
037.5
037.6

S. Mohan

51 (68)

I. Kishan

7 (14)

S. Gopal

4-2-13-0

37.6

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Another shorter one, on leg, Shikhar Mohan nudges it to the leg side.

37.5

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Dragged back, on middle, Shikhar Mohan keeps it out on the pitch.

We now have clarity on that earlier discussion between the umpires and Tilak Varma. The on-air commentators mention that it was regarding the slow over rate, and probably that's why we are seeing spin from both ends now.

37.4

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan fends it down the pitch.

37.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Floated, full and around leg, Shikhar Mohan clips it to square leg.

37.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Short again, on middle, Shikhar Mohan pats it towards square leg.

37.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Goes short and on off, Shikhar Mohan moves back and stabs it out to extra cover.

End Of The Over 37 : 182/3

3 Runs

036.1
036.2
136.3
036.4
136.5
136.6

S. Mohan

51 (62)

I. Kishan

7 (14)

T. Vijay

11-2-54-1

36.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Short again and around off, Shikhar Mohan punches it wide of extra cover for a quick run.

36.5

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Dragged back, outside off, Ishan Kishan cuts it through cover-point for one.

36.4

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Floated, full and on off, Ishan Kishan pushes it to cover.

36.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

FIFTY FOR MOHAN! Making his debut in the Duleep Trophy final and he has repaid the faith shown in him. Flatter, full and on off, Shikhar Mohan taps it towards covers for a run. Just a raise of the bat to soak in all the applause.

36.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan drills it wide of the bowler. Vijay puts in a dive to his left to make a fine stop.

36.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Tosses it up, full and on off, Shikhar Mohan gets forward and fends it back to the bowler.

There's a discussion going on between Tilak Varma and the two umpires. Not quite sure what it's about. Maybe, South Zone want the ball to get changed because they feel it has gone really soft. Anyway, Tripurana Vijay to continue...

End Of The Over 36 : 179/3

6 Runs

435.1
035.2
135.3
135.4
035.5
035.6

I. Kishan

6 (12)

S. Mohan

49 (58)

MD Nidheesh

8-2-34-0

35.6

MD Nidheesh To Ishan Kishan

Good length and on off, Ishan Kishan hops up a bit and stabs it out to extra cover.

35.5

MD Nidheesh To Ishan Kishan

Hits the deck hard, on middle, angling in, Ishan Kishan pats it down the pitch.

35.4

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Much fuller and on off, Shikhar Mohan pushes it towards cover for a run.

35.3

MD Nidheesh To Ishan Kishan

Back of a length and around off, Ishan Kishan rides the bounce and steers it through backward point for a single.

35.2

MD Nidheesh To Ishan Kishan

Full again and on off, Ishan Kishan drills it away to extra cover.

35.1

MD Nidheesh To Ishan Kishan

FOUR! That's a gift! A half-volley and around off. Ishan Kishan collapses his back knee, gets his hands through the drive and cracks it through covers for his first boundary.

End Of The Over 35 : 173/3

15 Runs

134.1
034.2
634.3
434.4
434.5
034.6

S. Mohan

48 (57)

I. Kishan

1 (7)

T. Vijay

10-2-51-1

34.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Slows it up, full and on off, Shikhar Mohan taps it to the off side.

34.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! 14 runs in the last 3 balls! Flatter, full and on off. Shikhar Mohan leans on it a bit and creams it through extra covers for four more runs. He moves to 48 now.

34.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! Powered away! Floated, full and just on off. Shikhar Mohan gets right underneath the ball and thumps it over the bowler's head for a boundary.

34.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

SIX! Clean strike! Tripurana Vijay gives this one some more air, full and on off. Shikhar Mohan clears his front leg away, hits through the line, launching it over the long off fence for a biggie.

34.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted, full and around middle, Shikhar Mohan defends it on the front foot.

34.1

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Tossed up, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan works it towards mid on and scampers across for a single.

End Of The Over 34 : 158/3

0 Runs

033.1
033.2
033.3
033.4
033.5
033.6

S. Mohan

34 (52)

I. Kishan

0 (6)

MD Nidheesh

7-2-28-0

33.6

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Maiden over! On a length and on off, Shikhar Mohan gets behind the line of it and keeps it out.

33.5

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Just short of a length and on off, Shikhar Mohan gets behind the line of it and pats it towards short cover.

33.4

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Hard-length delivery, on middle, Shikhar Mohan keeps it out to the leg side.

33.3

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Back of a length and well outside off, Shikhar Mohan leaves it alone.

33.2

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Full again and on off, Shikhar Mohan strides out and knocks it with a straight bat to mid off.

33.1

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller and around off, Shikhar Mohan drives it firmly but straigh to cover.

End Of The Over 33 : 158/3

1 Runs

032.1
132.2
032.3
032.4
032.5
032.6

I. Kishan

0 (6)

S. Mohan

34 (46)

T. Vijay

9-2-36-1

32.6

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Slows it up, full and on off, Ishan Kishan negotiates well.

32.5

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Flatter, full and around leg, Ishan Kishan clips it to short mid-wicket.

32.4

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Flighted, full and on leg, Ishan Kishan drills it to mid on.

32.3

Tripurana Vijay To Ishan Kishan

Fires this one, full and on middle, Ishan Kishan jams it down the pitch.

32.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Floated, full and on leg, Shikhar Mohan drills it to the left of mid on for a single.

32.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan prods forward and blocks it out.

End Of The Over 32 : 157/3

10 Runs

5 NB 31.1
431.1
031.2
031.3
131.4
031.5
031.6

I. Kishan

0 (2)

S. Mohan

33 (44)

M. Siraj

10-1-65-0

31.6

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Fuller in length this time, just pushed across the off stump. Kishan gets his front foot forward and shoulders arms.

31.5

Mohammed Siraj To Ishan Kishan

Siraj welcomes Kishan to the crease with a short-pitched delivery. This is banged in over leg stump, doesn't rise too high and Kishan has to take evasive action.

31.4

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Siraj comes over the wicket and bowls it back of a length, over off. Mohan pushes it off the back foot and wie of extra cover for a single.

31.3

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Now, that is a proper bumper. Siraj bends his back and digs it in short at 135.5 kph, bowling it towards the batter's neck. Shikhar Mohan watches it all the way and sways his head away from the line of the ball. Good cricket all-around.

31.2

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller and in the channel outside off, just a shade under 130 clicks. Mohan leaves it alone.

31.1

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR MORE! Siraj pulls the length back a bit, bowling it just outside off. Mohan stays back and plays it late, dabbing it down with an open bat face and to the left of the diving gully fielder for another boundary.

31.1

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

NO BALL AND FOUR! That's a glorious shot from Mohan. Fuller one, outside off, Mohan prods halfway and caresses it through the cover region for a boundary. Also, Siraj has overstepped, and the 150 is up for East Zone.

Another batter who throws his wicket away. Skipper Ishan Kishan is the next man in.

End Of The Over 31 : 147/3

1 Runs

030.1
030.2
030.3
130.4
030.5
W 30.6

S. Gharami

6 (25)

S. Mohan

24 (39)

T. Vijay

8-2-35-1

30.6

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami OUT!

OUT! CAUGHT! That's an unnecessary shot, and slowly but surely, South Zone are getting back into this contest. This is floated up around middle and leg. Sudip Gharami dances down the track, doesn't get to the pitch of the ball completely and the bat turns in his hand as he tries to loft it away. The ball gets skewed to wide mid on, where Chama Milind takes a simple catch. East Zone are now 147/3.

30.5

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Floated up on middle, driven on the up and back to the bowler.

30.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Dragged length on middle, at 86 kph and this one grips a bit. Mohan rocks back and wrists it away, forcing it through square leg for one.

30.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller and just a tad quicker, Mohan leans on and smothers it away.

30.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Nagging length on middle and leg, nudged away into the leg side.

30.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

A big appeal for LBW, but the umpire shakes his head. Seems pretty close and the keeper cannot believe it. Tilak Varma thinks about the review, but the timer eventually runs out. Drifted into the stumps, a bit fuller. Shikhar Mohan lunges ahead to sweep but misses and gets struck on the back pad.

End Of The Over 30 : 146/2

2 Runs

029.1
029.2
029.3
029.4
129.5
129.6

S. Mohan

23 (35)

S. Gharami

6 (23)

M. Siraj

9-1-55-0

29.6

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Shorter one at the bodyline, pulled down to fine leg for a single.

29.5

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Good stop at mid off. Full and straight, looking to slide one through. Gharami shows the full face of the bat and punches it to the right of mid off, where Tilak Varma dives across and cuts it off. Single taken.

29.4

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Length ball in the channel, holding its line as well. Gharami hangs back and defends it towards gully.

29.3

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Goes back to bowling it on a good length, angling it into the front pad. Gharami taps it out to mid on.

29.2

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

And again! A bit more effort, banging it in short over middle. Gharami squats down and lets it pass over him.

29.1

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Short ball over middle, doesn't rise much, but Gharami manages to duck under it.

End Of The Over 29 : 144/2

6 Runs

028.1
028.2
128.3
428.4
028.5
128.6

S. Gharami

5 (18)

S. Mohan

22 (34)

T. Vijay

7-2-34-0

28.6

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Nagging length, gently turning into the pads. Gharami has enough time to camp back and work it towards backward square leg for a single.

28.5

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Much better from the bowler. Floated up, on off, Gharami leans on to defend.

28.4

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

FOUR! Gharami is off the mark on the 16th ball, and that's a real freebie from Vijay as well. Dragged short on leg, Gharami rocks back and hammers the pull past square leg for a boundary.

28.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up outside off, edged away with gentle hands and past the slip fielder for a single.

28.2

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Ooh, a bit of turn on offer. Bowled slower and just outside off, Shikhar Mohan leans on to block but the ball goes past the outside edge, staying a bit low as well.

28.1

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted delivery, landing it outside off. Mohan strokes it away to cover.

Tripurana Vijay to operate from the other end.

End Of The Over 28 : 138/2

5 Runs

427.1
127.2
027.3
027.4
027.5
027.6

S. Gharami

0 (15)

S. Mohan

21 (31)

M. Siraj

8-1-53-0

27.6

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

A short ball to end the over, 5 runs off it. Banged in over middle and leg, Gharami ducks under it with ease.

27.5

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Speared in from wider on the crease, angling it in towards off. Gharami blocks it back to the bowler.

27.4

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Siraj hits the deck hard, keeping it around the top of off. Gharami plays it late and towards gully.

27.3

Mohammed Siraj To Sudip Gharami

Pitched fuller and just outside off, Gharami gets a confident stride out to defend.

27.2

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Good length, straightens a bit from off and middle. Mohan hangs back and works it wide of mid-wicket for a single.

27.1

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! That's a sublime shot. Full of a length, sliding it into the stumps. Shikhar Mohan gets forward and leans into the straight drive, punching it sweetly through mid on for a boundary.

We are back for the post-Lunch session. The umpires are back out in the middle and so are the players of South Zone. Shikhar Mohan and Sudip Gharami are also set to resume their stay at the crease. Mohammed Siraj will get things underway with the ball after the break. Let's go...

... DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...

Late blow gives South Zone hope - Abhimanyu Easwaran brought up his fifty and looked increasingly comfortable alongside Shikhar Mohan, but his innings was cut short on 72 by a mix-up shortly before Lunch. He had looked well set for a big score, particularly on his birthday, but South Zone finally found a breakthrough after a largely frustrating session. Sudip Gharami and Mohan saw East Zone through the remaining deliveries, though that late wicket gives South Zone a small foothold to build on when play resumes. Join us around 7.14 am GMT for the next session.

Openers lay the foundaion - East Zone came out with a clear attacking intent after opting to bat, with their openers putting South Zone under pressure from the outset. Neither batter allowed the bowlers to find any rhythm, cashing in whenever they strayed in line or length. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi naturally took on the aggressive role, but Abhimanyu Easwaran was equally fluent at the other end as the duo put together an excellent century stand. South Zone will perhaps rue not testing Sooryavanshi with the short ball sooner, with Chama Milind’s first bouncer doing the damage as the youngster fell just short of his half-century.

6.34 am GMT - LUNCH, DAY 1! East Zone have dominated the opening session of the Duleep Trophy 2025/26 final, putting themselves in a commanding position for a big first-innings total. Their scoring rate of just under five runs an over reflects the intent and execution from the batters, while South Zone have struggled for consistency and now need a strong response after the break to claw their way back into the contest.

End Of The Over 27 : 133/2

0 Runs

026.1
026.2
026.3
026.4
026.5
026.6

S. Gharami

0 (11)

S. Mohan

16 (29)

S. Gopal

3-1-13-0

26.6

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Three consecutive maidens to end the first session. Floated up on off and middle, Gharami works it away to mid-wicket. That will be Lunch on Day 1.

26.5

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Fuller delivery, tossed up wide of the off stump. Sudip Gharami leaves it alone.

26.4

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Dragged length on off, a hint of turn as well. Gharami rocks back and plays it down the line.

26.3

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Fuller and at the stumps, jammed to the right of the bowler.

26.2

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Nicely flighted, just outside off and this one dips as well. Gharami makes a watchful leave.

26.1

Shreyas Gopal To Sudip Gharami

Tossed up around off, eased away to cover.

Maybe one more over.

End Of The Over 26 : 133/2

0 Runs

025.1
025.2
025.3
025.4
025.5
025.6

S. Mohan

16 (29)

S. Gharami

0 (5)

M. Siraj

7-1-48-0

25.6

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Back-to-back maidens for South Zone. Good-length delivery, angling it across off, Mohan plays it late and with soft hands to gully.

25.5

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Good change-up from Siraj. A fiery short ball, attacking the batter and getting it to seam away. Shikhar Mohan leans back and lets it through well.

25.4

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Siraj bows it straighter, attacking middle and leg, Mohan clips it to mid-wicket.

25.3

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Good length again, on off, blocked off by the batter.

25.2

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Siraj pulls the length back a bit, getting it to seam away from the fifth stump line. Shikhar Mohan drops the hands back and lets it go.

25.1

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Length ball in the channel outside off, nibbling away. Mohan leaves it alone.

Probably the last over before Lunch.

End Of The Over 25 : 133/2

0 Runs

W 24.1
024.2
024.3
024.4
024.5
024.6

S. Gharami

0 (5)

S. Mohan

16 (23)

T. Vijay

6-2-28-0

24.6

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

A maiden from Vijay, which also included a run out. Dragged length, pushed across the off stump. Sudip Gharami covers the line and keeps it out.

24.5

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Nice and full, on leg, this is pushed off the front foot to mid on.

24.4

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Pushed through on leg stump, Gharami hops back and inside the line, dabbing it towards leg slip.

24.3

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Fuller this time, angled into the batter, Gharami clips it to the leg side.

24.2

Tripurana Vijay To Sudip Gharami

Shorter on middle, turning in with some bounce. Sudip Gharami blocks it down.

A wicket against the run of play. Sudip Gharami comes out to the middle now.

24.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran OUT!

OUT! EASWARAN IS RUN OUT! Never a run there, and Abhimanyu Easwaran has thrown his wicket away. East Zone get a lucky breakthrough. Tripurana Vijay bowls it flatter, sliding it across the off stump. Easwaran hops back and dabs it wide of the slip fielder. Both batters set off for the single but Shikhar Mohan quickly calls no. However, Easwaran is too far down the track. Devdutt Padikkal hunts it down and throws it back to the keeper. Narayan Jagadeesan whips off the bails with Easwaran nowhere in sight, and a stellar knock comes to a disappointing end.

End Of The Over 24 : 133/1

7 Runs

023.1
123.2
023.3
423.4
223.5
023.6

S. Mohan

16 (23)

A. Easwaran

72 (85)

M. Siraj

6-0-48-0

23.6

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Length ball, gets it to move away a bit from off. Mohan angles it away towards gully.

23.5

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Shorter this time, worked away off the back foot and well in front of square leg for a brace.

23.4

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! Easily done. Sliding into the pads, Shikhar Mohan lets the ball come on and just nudges it down in front of square leg. Chama Milind moves to his right in th deep and makes a lazy attempt at the stop, fumbling it over the ropes.

23.3

Mohammed Siraj To Shikhar Mohan

Siraj pitches it fuller on off, Mohan gets a good stride in and blocks it off.

23.2

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length, in and around off, Easwaran bunts it in front of covers and scampers through for the single.

23.1

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Back of a length and over off, Abhimanyu Easwaran hops back to defend.

Mohammed Siraj is back into the attack now.

End Of The Over 23 : 126/1

1 Runs

022.1
122.2
022.3
022.4
022.5
022.6

S. Mohan

10 (19)

A. Easwaran

71 (83)

T. Vijay

5-1-28-0

22.6

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Gives this some more air, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan is solid in his defense again.

22.5

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Slows it up, full and on off, Shikhar Mohan lunges out and blocks it.

22.4

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Floated, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan dead-bats it.

22.3

Tripurana Vijay To Shikhar Mohan

Tossed up, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan defends it on the front foot.

22.2

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Short again and around leg, Abhimanyu Easwaran clips it through backward square leg for a single.

22.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Shorter in length and on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran moves back and pats it to short mid-wicket.

End Of The Over 22 : 125/1

0 Runs

021.1
021.2
021.3
021.4
021.5
021.6

S. Mohan

10 (15)

A. Easwaran

70 (81)

MD Nidheesh

6-1-28-0

21.6

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

No maidens in the first 20 overs, but back-to-back maiden overs now! On a length and on off, Shikhar Mohan steers it to point.

21.5

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Another full delivery, on middle, angling in, Shikhar Mohan drills it to mid on.

21.4

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Half-volley, around off, Shikhar Mohan strides out and drives it to mid off.

21.3

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Full and on off, Shikhar Mohan gets forward and blocks it out.

21.2

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Touch fuller and on off, Shikhar Mohan lifts his hands and does not offer any shot.

21.1

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Good-length delivery, around off, Shikhar Mohan lets it go to the keeper.

End Of The Over 21 : 125/1

0 Runs

020.1
020.2
020.3
020.4
020.5
020.6

A. Easwaran

70 (81)

S. Mohan

10 (9)

T. Vijay

4-1-27-0

20.6

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Well, we do get the first maiden over of the final! This is shorter in length, on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran nudges it to square leg.

20.5

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Looped up, full and on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran tucks it to short mid-wicket.

20.4

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Drops it short, on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran stays back and flicks it to square leg.

20.3

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Flighted, full and on leg, Abhimanyu Easwaran turns it to the leg side.

20.2

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Floated, full and on middle, turns in, Abhimanyu Easwaran looks to flick it away but misses and gets hit on the pads.

20.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Flatter, short and around leg, Abhimanyu Easwaran backs away and punches it to short cover.

End Of The Over 20 : 125/1

5 Runs

419.1
019.2
019.3
019.4
019.5
119.6

A. Easwaran

70 (75)

S. Mohan

10 (9)

MD Nidheesh

5-0-28-0

19.6

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Pitched up and on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran flicks it away to deep mid-wicket for a single. 20 overs into the final, still no maiden overs!

19.5

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Pulls his length back a bit, on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran stabs it out to short cover.

19.4

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full again and on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran strides out a bit and fends it to the off side.

19.3

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Much fuller and on middle, angling in, Abhimanyu Easwaran knocks it towards mid on.

19.2

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length and on middle and off, Abhimanyu Easwaran stays back and pats it down the pitch.

19.1

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Gets it away! MD Nidheesh bowls this on a hard length and around off. Abhimanyu Easwaran tries to guide it late again but gets a thick outside edge that flies wide of the slip cordon for a boundary.

End Of The Over 19 : 120/1

2 Runs

118.1
018.2
018.3
018.4
018.5
118.6

A. Easwaran

65 (69)

S. Mohan

10 (9)

C. Milind

5-0-16-1

18.6

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Short of a length and outside off, Abhimanyu Easwaran waits for it and cuts it late towards deep backward point for one.

18.5

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Back of a length and on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran punches it away to extra cover.

18.4

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

A good bumper, on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran crouches low and sways away from it.

18.3

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Pitched up and around off, Abhimanyu Easwaran reaches out a bit and bunts it out towards short cover.

18.2

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Goes fuller and outside off, not close enough to make Abhimanyu Easwaran play.

18.1

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

On a length and on off, Shikhar Mohan pats it to the right of short cover for a single.

End Of The Over 18 : 118/1

9 Runs

117.1
117.2
117.3
417.4
017.5
217.6

A. Easwaran

64 (64)

S. Mohan

9 (8)

MD Nidheesh

4-0-23-0

17.6

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Overpitched delivery, on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran strides out and drives it through covers for a couple of runs.

17.5

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Hard length and around off, Abhimanyu Easwaran punches it towards short cover.

17.4

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Top shot! Fuller delivery, on middle, angling in. Abhimanyu Easwaran just gives it a flick of the wrists, meets the ball right under his eyes and times it through mid-wicket for a boundary. He has been flawless so far.

17.3

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Back of a length and on off, straightens off the deck. Shikhar Mohan guides it off the outer half of the bat to deep third man for another run.

17.2

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Lands this on a good length and around off, Abhimanyu Easwaran looks to push it away but gets an outside edge but it does not carry to cover-point. They cross. Nelson on the board!

17.1

MD Nidheesh To Shikhar Mohan

Full and on middle, angling in, Shikhar Mohan clips it through square leg for a single.

MD Nidheesh is brought back into the attack.

End Of The Over 17 : 109/1

2 Runs

016.1
016.2
016.3
016.4
116.5
116.6

S. Mohan

7 (6)

A. Easwaran

57 (60)

C. Milind

4-0-14-1

16.6

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Back to the fuller length, on leg, Shikhar Mohan clips it towards mid-wicket, where a fumble allows one.

16.5

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Dug into the surface, on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran rolls his wrists and pulls it o deep backward square leg for a single.

16.4

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Sticks to the fuller length and outside off, Abhimanyu Easwaran offers no shot at it.

16.3

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Pitched up and on middle, angling in, Abhimanyu Easwaran clips it to short mid-wicket.

16.2

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full again and way outside off, shaping further away, Abhimanyu Easwaran makes an easy leave.

16.1

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Fuller in length, just outside off, Abhimanyu Easwaran lets it go to the keeper.

End Of The Over 16 : 107/1

6 Runs

415.1
015.2
115.3
015.4
015.5
115.6

A. Easwaran

56 (55)

S. Mohan

6 (5)

S. Gopal

2-0-13-0

15.6

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Dragged back, on middle, Abhimanyu Easwaran turns it towards square leg for a run.

15.5

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Slows it up, full and around off, Abhimanyu Easwaran leaves it alone.

15.4

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Floated, full and on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran fends it to the off side.

15.3

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Goes short, on middle and leg, Shikhar Mohan flicks it off the back foot through square leg for a single.

15.2

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

Flighted, full and on middle, Shikhar Mohan defends it on the front foot.

15.1

Shreyas Gopal To Shikhar Mohan

FOUR! Takes the aerial route! Tossed up, full and on leg, Shikhar Mohan brings his wrists into play and flicks it uppishly and well over short mid-wicket for a boundary.

End Of The Over 15 : 101/1

3 Runs

114.1
014.2
114.3
W 14.4
014.5
114.6

S. Mohan

1 (2)

A. Easwaran

55 (52)

C. Milind

3-0-12-1

14.6

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Pitched up and on off, Shikhar Mohan taps it towards cover for a quick one.

14.5

Chama Milind To Shikhar Mohan

Fuller in length and on off, Shikhar Mohan gets forward and blocks it out.

This wicket could end up being a massive confidence booster for South Zone's bowling attack. Shikhar Mohan walks out to bat at number 3 for East Zone.

14.4

Chama Milind To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi OUT!

OUT! TAKEN! Chama Milind gets a massive wicket and breaks the 100-run opening stand. The short-ball plan has worked but maybe they should have tried it a lot sooner. Milind bangs this into the pitch around middle, gets some steep bounce. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi looks to take it on with the pull shot but the ball just gets a bit big on him. It takes the top edge and flies high in the air towards deep square leg, where Tanay Thyagarajan (Sub fielder) runs to his right, keeps his eyes on the ball and takes a fine sliding catch. Sooryavanshi is disappointed with himself as he trudges back to the hut.

14.3

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Much fuller and on middle, angling in, Abhimanyu Easwaran knocks it towards mid on for a run. 100 UP FOR EAST ZONE!

14.2

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Back of a length and on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran takes a couple of steps across and pats it towards short cover.

14.1

Chama Milind To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Full and angling into the pads, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi flicks it to deep square leg for a single.

End Of The Over 14 : 98/0

7 Runs

113.1
213.2
413.3
013.4
013.5
013.6

A. Easwaran

54 (50)

V. Sooryavanshi

43 (35)

S. Gopal

1-0-7-0

13.6

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Flighted again, drifted into the pads, Easwaran drives it to mid on.

13.5

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Floated up on off stump, dips a bit. Easwaran smothers it across to the leg side.

13.4

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Stump-to-stump bowling, blocked back to the bowler.

13.3

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Excellent batting. Flatter one, a bit short and outside off. Easwaran hangs back, uses the pace and guides it past the slip fielder for a boundary.

13.2

Shreyas Gopal To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Flighted ball, ends up being a low full toss on middle and leg. Abhimanyu Easwaran clips it away between square leg and mid-wicket for a couple of runs in the deep. That will also be FIFTY for the birthday boy Easwaran, his 38th in First-Class cricket.

13.1

Shreyas Gopal To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Tossed up, full and around off. Sooryavanshi drives it along the turf and down to long off for a run.

DRINKS! It has been all East Zone in this phase of play. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has played as everyone expected, but to everyone's surprise, Abhimanyu Easwaran has also scored at a brisk rate. The duo has already added 91 runs together and are looking unbeatable at the moment. South Zone have been a bit inconsistent with the ball and may have tried a bit too many things, playing into the hands of the batters. They will hope that they can at least break this opening stand before going into Lunch. Also, Shreyas Gopal, playing his 100th First-Class game, will bowl after the break.

End Of The Over 13 : 91/0

7 Runs

112.1
012.2
112.3
112.4
012.5
412.6

A. Easwaran

48 (45)

V. Sooryavanshi

42 (34)

C. Milind

2-0-9-0

12.6

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Lovely timing from Easwaran and he moves to 48 now. Similar line and length to the previous delivery. This time Abhimanyu Easwaran leans across and strokes it well to the right of Mohammed Siraj at sweeper cover for a boundary.

12.5

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Bowled from around the wicket, fuller and well wide of the off stump. Easwaran lets it go.

12.4

Chama Milind To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Back of a length and over the stumps, pushed off the back foot and in front of mid-wiket for a quick run.

12.3

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Hard length on the pads, tucked down to fine leg for an easy single.

Looks like it is going to be short stuff to Abhimanyu Easwaran, with five fielders on the leg side.

12.2

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

A proper bumper from Milind. Short and over middle, curving away from the right-hander, and Abhimanyu Easwaran just ducks under it.

12.1

Chama Milind To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Banged in well short and wide, Sooryavanshi goes chasing after it and cue-ends it down to deep third for a single.

End Of The Over 12 : 84/0

12 Runs

411.1
111.2
111.3
411.4
111.5
111.6

V. Sooryavanshi

40 (32)

A. Easwaran

43 (41)

T. Vijay

3-0-27-0

11.6

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Dragged shorter and outside off, cut away to deep point for a run more. East Zone are racing along at a scoring rate of 7 runs an over at the moment, and it is looking a bit too easy for their openers right now.

11.5

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full and straighter at the stumps, Easwaran steps out and smothers it wide of mid on for a single.

11.4

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Easwaran is really taking a liking to the off-spinner. Tossed up again, on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran takes a step forward and makes a bit of room, drilling it past the non-striker and into the long off fence.

11.3

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Drop and run, excellent from the two openers. Tossed up around off, Sooryavanshi gets forward and plays it gently in front of point, pinching a quick single.

11.2

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Dragged length again, outside off. Easwaran backs away and stabs it in front of point for a single.

11.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! That's delicately done. Shorter one, turning into leg, Easwaran hops back and nurdles it down to the vacant fine leg fence for a boundary.

End Of The Over 11 : 72/0

2 Runs

1 NB 10.1
010.1
010.2
010.3
010.4
010.5
110.6

A. Easwaran

33 (37)

V. Sooryavanshi

38 (30)

C. Milind

1-0-2-0

10.6

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

A well-directed bumper, right at the batter. Easwaran controls the pull well down to long leg and picks up a single. A fairly tidy start from Milind.

10.5

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length in the channel, Easwaran keeps it out.

Uh, oh! Abhimanyu Easwaran stops the bowler in his stride as he gets distracted by the towel that dropped off Chama Milind's back while bustling in.

10.4

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Milind goes fuller, keeping the line just outside the off stump again. Abhimanyu Easwaran drives it back to the bowler.

10.3

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Length ball, in and around the off stump line, blocked off the front foot by Easwaran.

10.2

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good call from Easwaran to send Vaibhav Sooryavanshi back. Full and outside off, Easwaran smothers the drive to extra cover and both batters set off for the single, but he quickly realizes that there isn't a run and sends the non-striker back in time.

10.1

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length, attacking middle stump, Easwaran dabs it towards the mid-wicket fielder.

10.1

Chama Milind To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good line from Milind to begin with. Just back of a length, in the channel, Easwaran hops back to defend but gets an inside edge onto the pads. Uh, oh! Milind has overstepped on his very first delivery, and a No Ball is called.

Chama Milind comes in to bowl now, replacing Mohammed Siraj.

End Of The Over 10 : 70/0

9 Runs

09.1
69.2
19.3
09.4
09.5
29.6

V. Sooryavanshi

38 (30)

A. Easwaran

32 (30)

T. Vijay

2-0-15-0

9.6

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Uppish but safe! Tripurana Vijay sees the batter advance and fires this one, full and outside off. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi does well to throw his hands to get some bat on it. He slices it up in the air but the ball drops over the backward point fielder. Two taken.

9.5

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Slows it up, full and on off, turns away. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi prods forward and fends it to the off side.

9.4

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Flighted, full and on off, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi lunges out and blocks it out.

9.3

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Drops it short, outside off, Abhimanyu Easwaran backs away and cuts it to deep point for a single.

It seems like the ball has been lost in the vacant stand over long on. The fourth umpire is out with a box of balls, but hang on, there seems to be a hospitality staff member trying to get the previous one back. The ball is visible on the big screen and finally, the staff member is able to get it back.

9.2

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

SIX! Abhimanyu Easwaran is taking charge as well here! Floated, full and on middle and off. Easwaran dances down the track, makes it into a half-volley and dispatches it well over the long on fence for a biggie.

9.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Tossed up, full and on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran strides forward and tucks it to short mid-wicket.

End Of The Over 9 : 61/0

10 Runs

18.1
08.2
48.3
48.4
08.5
18.6

A. Easwaran

25 (27)

V. Sooryavanshi

36 (27)

M. Siraj

5-0-41-0

8.6

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Dug into the surface, outside off, Abhimanyu Easwaran tries to heave it across the line but gets a bit of a top edge. It goes in the air but lands well wide of mid on. They cross.

8.5

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Hits the deck hard and around off, nips back in a bit, Abhimanyu Easwaran watches it through and leaves it alone.

8.4

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR MORE! Easy pickings! Short of a length and on middle, sits up nicely for the batter. Abhimanyu Easwaran swivels and plays another controlled pull shot to the deep square leg fence for another boundary.

8.3

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Put away! Mohammed Siraj bangs this into the pitch, on middle. Abhimanyu Easwaran picks up the length early, gets on top of it and pulls it away to the deep square leg fence for a boundary.

8.2

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length and on middle, angling in, Abhimanyu Easwaran steps across and clips it to shor mid-wicket.

8.1

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Fuller in length and on middle, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi defends it with a straight bat as the ball rolls to the left of mid off. A single taken.

Double change? Nope. Mohammed Siraj to continue.

End Of The Over 8 : 51/0

6 Runs

07.1
17.2
07.3
17.4
47.5
07.6

A. Easwaran

16 (22)

V. Sooryavanshi

35 (26)

T. Vijay

1-0-6-0

7.6

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

A bit quicker, short and on middle, turns in, Abhimanyu Easwaran tucks it away towards short fine.

7.5

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Fine use of the feet! Tossed up, full and on off. Abhimanyu Easwaran skips down the track to get to the pitch of it and thumps it to the long off fence for a boundary. 50 up for East Zone!

7.4

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Shorter once more, around off, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi punches it to sweeper cover for a run.

7.3

Tripurana Vijay To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Dragged back, just outside off, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi cuts it away but fails to beat backward point.

7.2

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Drops it short, on off, Abhimanyu Easwaran stays back and works it towards square leg for a single.

7.1

Tripurana Vijay To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Floated, full and on leg, turns in a bit. Abhimanyu Easwaran looks to clip it away but misses. The keeper grabs it and appeals for it, but nothing doing.

Time for some spin now as Tripurana Vijay comes in as the first bowling change.

End Of The Over 7 : 45/0

14 Runs

06.1
46.2
66.3
06.4
06.5
46.6

V. Sooryavanshi

34 (24)

A. Easwaran

11 (18)

M. Siraj

4-0-31-0

6.6

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

FOUR! Another boundary to finish the over! Fuller in length again, on off. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi extends his arms to get under it and pumps it over mid off for four more runs. 14 runs off the over.

6.5

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Pitched up and on middle, angling in, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi fends it away towards short cover.

6.4

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Mohammed Siraj sees the batter advance and hits the deck hard, on middle and leg, angling into the batter. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gets cramped up for room and stabs it back to the bowler. He quickly returns back to his crease, while Siraj has a smile on his face.

6.3

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

SIX! BANG! Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is making his intent pretty clear now. A bit too full, on off, in the slot. Sooryavanshi clears his front leg away and tonks it over the long off fence for a biggie.

6.2

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

FOUR! Lovely shot! Mohammed Siraj serves this a tad bit fuller, around off. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi lets the ball come to him, opens the bat face and uses the pace to steer it past point for a boundary.

6.1

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Lands this back of a length and on off, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gets behind the line of it and blocks it out.

End Of The Over 6 : 31/0

9 Runs

45.1
05.2
45.3
15.4
05.5
05.6

A. Easwaran

11 (18)

V. Sooryavanshi

20 (18)

MD Nidheesh

3-0-14-0

5.6

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Just short of a length and well outside off, shoots up a bit, Abhimanyu Easwaran leaves it alone.

5.5

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full again and on off, shaping in a bit, Abhimanyu Easwaran fends it off the inner half of the bat to the leg side.

5.4

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Change of pace, serves this full and on middle, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi knocks it towards mid off for a single.

5.3

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

FOUR! Up and over! MD Nidheesh lands this on a good length and on middle. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi backs away to open up the off side, gets his bat low to high to loft it over covers for another boundary.

5.2

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Comes around the wicket, hits the deck hard, on middle, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stays back and pats it down the pitch.

5.1

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

FOUR! Nicely done! Back of a length and just around off. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi rises up with the bounce and punches it with sweet timing through covers for a boundary.

End Of The Over 5 : 22/0

4 Runs

14.1
14.2
04.3
04.4
04.5
24.6

A. Easwaran

11 (16)

V. Sooryavanshi

11 (14)

M. Siraj

3-0-17-0

4.6

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Dug in well short, at the batter. Abhimanyu Easwaran swivels and pulls it away down to long leg for a couple of runs.

4.5

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full-pitched delivery, attacking the off stump. Easwaran gets on the front foot and punches it out to mid off.

4.4

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good-length delivery in the channel outside off, zips through the deck. Easwaran shoulders arms.

4.3

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Siraj shortens the length, angling the ball back in from well outside off. Abhimanyu Easwaran hops back and blocks it off.

4.2

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Full ball on off, driven with a straight bat and down to long off for another single. A surprisingly defensive field so early on in the game.

4.1

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full of a good length, pushed outside the line of off. Easwaran lunges and eases it wide of the gully fielder, picking up a comfortable single. Siraj isn't happy with the lack of energy in the field.

End Of The Over 4 : 18/0

2 Runs

03.1
03.2
03.3
03.4
23.5
03.6

V. Sooryavanshi

10 (13)

A. Easwaran

8 (11)

MD Nidheesh

2-0-5-0

3.6

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Fuller delivery at 134.4 kph, just outside off, Sooryavanshi leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

3.5

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Just a gentle nudge, but timed really well. Pitched up around off, Sooryavanshi gets halfway forward and jabs it through the gap between gully and covers for a couple of runs.

3.4

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Fuller this time, slanting across the off stump. Sooryavanshi gets forward and drives it sweetly but straight to cover.

3.3

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Ooh, a bit of an indifferent bounce. Angled across the left-hander, Sooryavanshi gets on his toes and has a poke at it but the ball nibbles past the outside edge, dying on its way to the keeper.

3.2

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Fractionally shorter on middle and leg, moving to the off side. Sooryavanshi hops back and defends down the line.

3.1

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Nidheesh hits the deck hard, keeping it tight around off. Sooryavanshi watchfully blocks it down to point.

End Of The Over 3 : 16/0

9 Runs

42.1
02.2
12.3
42.4
02.5
02.6

A. Easwaran

8 (11)

V. Sooryavanshi

8 (7)

M. Siraj

2-0-13-0

2.6

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full of a good length, darted back in from wide of the off stump. Abhimanyu Easwaran strides across to defend.

2.5

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Bowled from wider on the crease, getting it to shape back in. Easwaran leaves it alone.

2.4

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

FOUR! Ill-directed from Siraj, and easy pickings for Easwaran. Length ball drifting on the pads, tucked away down to the right of the fine leg fielder for another boundary.

2.3

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Full-pitched delivery, trying to attack the toes, Sooryavanshi clips it through wide mid on for a single.

2.2

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Good comeback from Siraj. He keeps the length full, getting the ball to wobble across from the off stump line. Sooryavanshi looks to drive but gets beaten on the outside edge.

2.1

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

FOUR! Lovely hands from Sooryavanshi. Siraj throws caution to the wind, bowling it full and wide, looking for the big inswinger, but it goes straight on. Sooryavanshi leans on and drives it square through the off side for the first boundary of the game.

End Of The Over 2 : 7/0

3 Runs

11.1
01.2
11.3
01.4
11.5
01.6

A. Easwaran

4 (8)

V. Sooryavanshi

3 (4)

MD Nidheesh

1-0-3-0

1.6

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Nice and full, on the fourth stump line and seaming away. Easwaran makes a watchful leave.

1.5

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

On the shorter side from Nidheesh, around off. Sooryavanshi has time to wait back and he plays it with soft hands through gully for a run.

1.4

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Back of a length, in and around off, Sooryavanshi hops back to defend.

1.3

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Fuller in length, on middle, clipped away through backward square leg for a single.

1.2

MD Nidheesh To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good carry! Length ball in the channel, at 129.6 kph, and this one just seams away a touch. Easwaran shoulders arms.

1.1

MD Nidheesh To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Short of a good length, angling back into off. Sooryavanshi punches it off the back foot and through covers for a single.

MD Nidheesh to start from the opposite end. Just one slip in place for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

End Of The Over 1 : 4/0

4 Runs

00.1
00.2
20.3
00.4
10.5
10.6

V. Sooryavanshi

1 (1)

A. Easwaran

3 (5)

M. Siraj

1-0-4-0

0.6

Mohammed Siraj To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Streaky, but Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is off the mark. Nice and full on off, shaping in. Sooryavanshi goes for the cover drive but gets an inside edge past the leg stump for a single.

0.5

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Full again, on the pads, tucked away neatly through square leg for one. A huge cheer from the crowd as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will be on strike now.

0.4

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Siraj goes fuller now and gets it to seam away from the fourth stump line. Easwaran plays inside the line.

0.3

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

The birthday boy is underway and so are East Zone. Length again, sliding into the pads, Easwaran clips it away to the left of deep backward square leg and picks up two runs.

0.2

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Good length around the top of off, blocked away by Easwaran.

0.1

Mohammed Siraj To Abhimanyu Easwaran

Ooh, a bit of shape and bounce. Siraj serves it short of a good length and on off. The ball shapes away and bounces extra off the red soil surface and Abhimanyu Easwaran gets beaten on the outside edge.

We are all set for the game to begin. The umpires are out in the middle and so are the players of South Zone. It will be the duo of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the birthday boy, Abhimanyu Easwaran to open the innings for East Zone. Mohammed Siraj to start proceedings with the ball. Let's play...

The captain of South Zone - Tilak Varma says that just before the toss he told Ishan Kishan that they were looking to bowl first which they are going to do now and that the first few overs will be crucial. He says that the incoming Mohammed Siraj will bolster their bowling attack further. Adds that the team played really well in the semifinal and want to carry that same momentum into the final. Mentions that the experience of Siraj will be crucial along with a few other players and altogether they have four changes in the team.

The captain of East Zone - Ishan Kishan says that the wicket looks decent and there is a bit of moisture and they will look to play out the first hour and then get a big total on the board. Adds that it is important to start from zero again and they are looking to be in a great frame of mind. On his captaincy and East Zone winning the final, he says that they will look to win but want to play good cricket. Ends by saying that the players have been giving it their all and credits the bowlers for forming partnerships in the middle overs.

South Zone (Playing XI) - Tilak Varma (C), Ricky Bhui, Shaik Rasheed, Ravichandran Smaran, Narayan Jagadeesan (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, Shreyas Gopal, MD Nidheesh, Mohammed Siraj, Tripurana Vijay, and Chama Milind.

East Zone (Playing XI) - Ishan Kishan (C/WK), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Kumar Kushagra, Anukul Roy, Md Kounain Qureshi, Mohammad Shami, Mukesh Kumar, and Abhijit Sarkar.

TOSS - East Zone win and the and will BAT first.

Reigning champs bring reinforcements - South Zone are the reigning champions and will look to replicate their success from last season. They have also brought in Devdutt Padikkal fresh off a stellar Test series against Sri Lanka and also one of India's leading red ball pacers in the form of Mohammed Siraj. They have great all-round depth in all departments but will they be able to keep East Zone's batters under check? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for the toss and team news.

East Zone looking to script history - It's been a while since East Zone last won the Duleep Trophy and with a fresh and fiesty squad, they look to topple the mighty South Zone. With Ishan Kishan at the helm and the talented Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in full flow, East Zone will look to dominate with the bat, whereas between Mohammad Shami will look to do the heavy lifting with the ball.

The summit clash - Hello and a warm welcome to one and all. Chepauk is all set to host the Duleep Trophy Final between East Zone and South Zone. Both teams come into this game on the back of strong bowling performances in the semis, but the batting might end up being the differentiating factor.

... MATCH DAY ...

Steeped in history - For decades, the Duleep Trophy has been one of the clearest pathways for India's domestic cricketers to test themselves against the country's best. Named after Kumar Shri Duleepsinhji, the nephew of Ranjitsinhji, the tournament has predominantly been a zonal contest, though its format has evolved at various points over the years. From established internationals to players pushing for their big break, it has remained an important proving ground in Indian first-class cricket. The 2026 edition of the Duleep Trophy has reached its final chapter, with East Zone and South Zone set to battle it out at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Originally scheduled to be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the final was moved to Chepauk to allow spectators to attend the marquee domestic fixture. Chasing another title - South Zone have a proud Duleep Trophy history, with 14 titles to their name, including 12 outright victories and two shared titles. Their last triumph came in 2023, and having reached last year's final, they began this campaign from the semi-final stage, where they saw off North Zone to book their place in another title clash. A blend of experience and promise - Leading from the front in that semi-final win was skipper Tilak Varma, who set the tone with an unbeaten century in the first innings before returning to finish the chase with an unbeaten fifty and guide his team into the final. The likes of Ricky Bhui and Narayan Jagadeesan bring plenty of first-class experience to the batting unit, while Ravichandran Smaran arrives with a truckload of runs behind him. He was the leading run-scorer in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, making him one of South Zone's key batting prospects heading into the final. Shaik Rasheed offers the promise of youth. His talent is undeniable, and a final of this stature presents him with an opportunity to make his mark on the big stage. Their batting has been strengthened further by the addition of Devdutt Padikkal. He arrives in Chennai in fine touch, having struck twin centuries in India's recent Test series in Sri Lanka. His recent form could prove a major boost for South Zone as they look to finish the job this time around. Bowling gets a boost - A significant addition on the bowling front is Mohammed Siraj, who seemed to struggle for rhythm during the two Tests in Sri Lanka and will be keen to find his best again in the final. His arrival comes at an important time for South Zone, with Vidwath Kaverappa picking up a niggle in the second innings after an impressive first-innings spell. MD Nidheesh made a strong impression with a five-wicket haul in the second innings and could form a partnership with Siraj that will be one to watch in the final. Spin could become increasingly important as the game progresses, with Shreyas Gopal spearheading that department. The long road to Chepauk - East Zone have won the competition twice, with their last title win coming in 2012. They have taken the longer route to this year's final, entering the competition from the quarter-final stage and battling their way through to the title clash after defeating North East Zone and Central Zone along the way. A mix of solidity and flair - Abhimanyu Easwaran provides the solidity at the top, with years of first-class cricket behind him, while captain Ishan Kishan brings an attacking presence in the middle order. Then there is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose fearless approach has added another dimension to the side. The teenager struck 92 in the semi-final and showed the willingness to take on the bowling that has quickly become a feature of his batting. He may still be young, but a final against South Zone offers another opportunity to show that he belongs on this stage. The middle order also has plenty of domestic experience, with Kumar Kushagra, Virat Singh and Sudip Gharami capable of making important contributions. Experience at the heart of the attack - Mohammad Shami brings enormous experience and the ability to make things happen with both the new ball and the old ball, with his reverse swing adding another dimension as the innings progresses. Mukesh Kumar, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the dependable performers on the domestic circuit. The combination of Shami and Mukesh gives East Zone a strong pace attack, with both capable of exploiting any movement on offer at Chepauk. They also have useful spin options in Shahbaz Ahmed and Anukul Roy. Shahbaz did not feature in the semi-final, but if the conditions favour spin, he could return to the XI. What will Chepauk offer? We are heading into a bit of the unknown when it comes to red-ball cricket at Chepauk, with the last first-class game at the venue coming back in 2024. That makes it difficult to predict exactly how the surface will behave over five days. The heat and humidity could play a role early on, while the pitch is likely to offer more assistance to spin as the game progresses and the surface begins to wear. With two well-balanced sides and plenty of experience on both teams, the team that adapts quickest to the conditions could hold the edge in what promises to be a closely fought Duleep Trophy final. Whose side are you on?

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Match Info

Venue MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Weather Sunny
Toss East Zone won the toss and elected to bat
Umpire Rohan Pandit (IND), Virender Sharma (IND) and Jayaraman Madanagopal (IND)
Referee Pankaj Dharmani (IND)