When the 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was appointed as the vice-captain of East Zone for the Duleep Trophy, it sparked immediate debate among experts and fans. While some questioned whether such a heavy responsibility was appropriate at such a tender age, others worried it might hinder his batting performance. However, the young Indian batsman has consistently proven his doubters wrong by not only making an impact with the bat but also displaying exceptional leadership qualities. A prime example of this unfolded on the third day of the ongoing Duleep Trophy final between East Zone and South Zone, where his sharp instincts helped secure a vital breakthrough.
The urgent appeal that forced a review
The incident took place during the sixth over of the innings. East Zone was desperate for an early wicket, and experienced fast bowler Mukesh Kumar was operating with the ball against South Zone opening batsman Ricky Bhui. Mukesh delivered a ball down the leg side, which grazed the edge of the batsman's bat and settled safely into the gloves of wicketkeeper Kumar Kushagra. An enthusiastic appeal followed immediately, but the on-field umpire remained unmoved and turned it down. Captain Ishan Kishan looked hesitant and undecided about whether to challenge the decision, but his young deputy stepped in with absolute conviction.
Stump mic catches the insistence
Sensing the hesitation from the leadership, the vice-captain took charge and persistently urged his skipper to go upstairs for a review. His vocal insistence was clearly captured by the stump mic, with his words echoing across the ground urging the captain to take the review. Yielding to the fierce determination of his young colleague, the captain finally agreed to the referral.
UltraEdge confirms the nick
When the review was officially taken, the UltraEdge technology provided conclusive proof that the ball had indeed brushed the bat on its way through. Consequently, the third umpire reversed the original decision and the batsman was sent back to the pavilion. The entire fielding unit erupted in celebration, and the bowler walked over to thank his young teammate for the sharp observation. Commentators on air were equally impressed, noting that the team should seriously listen whenever the youngster calls for a review. The moment was also highlighted by BCCI Domestic on X.
East Zone dominates the final
Meanwhile, East Zone continued to tighten its grip on the Duleep Trophy final on the third day. Riding on a magnificent 270-run captain's knock from Ishan Kishan, the team had posted a colossal total of 708 runs in their first innings. In response, South Zone struggled immensely as half their side was sent packing for just 174 runs. While Devdutt Padikkal managed to score a fighting half-century, the rest of the top order failed to convert their starts. Among the bowlers, Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar picked up two wickets each, while debutant Shikhar Mohan chipped in with one dismissal.
