In a stunning display of batting prowess, Ishan Kishan scored a remarkable double century, leading East Zone to a record total of 708 runs in their first innings during the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone. This monumental score marks the third-highest team total in the history of Duleep Trophy finals and is a significant milestone as it is the first instance where East Zone has surpassed 600 runs in the competition.
Kishan's innings consisted of 30 boundaries and seven sixes, making him only the seventh player to achieve a double century in a Duleep Trophy final. His score of 270 not only set a new benchmark for East Zone but also positioned him as the first captain and wicketkeeper from the team to reach this milestone in the tournament's history.
As East Zone resumed play on the second day with a score of 385 for 4, Kishan and his batting partner Kumar Kushagra were well-set at the crease, having already established a partnership of 144 runs. Kishan, who began the day on 111, accelerated his scoring, reaching his 150 off 204 balls. Kushagra, who was batting on 63, also made significant contributions, eventually scoring a century off 128 balls before being dismissed shortly after.
With Kishan continuing to dominate the South Zone bowlers, East Zone reached 491 for 5 at lunch. Kishan's second first-class double hundred came off 270 balls, highlighted by a stylish drive through the covers. He built a formidable sixth-wicket partnership of 140 runs with Anukul Roy before retiring hurt after reaching 250 runs, leaving his team at 611 for 5.
Despite his retirement, the East Zone innings continued to flourish as Md Kounain Qureshi and Mohammed Shami added valuable runs, pushing the total closer to the 700 mark. Kishan returned to the crease after Shami's dismissal and added 20 more runs to his tally, culminating in East Zone becoming only the third team to score over 700 runs in a Duleep Trophy final. Kishan was eventually dismissed for 270 runs, just three runs shy of his personal best first-class score of 273.
South Zone's bowling attack struggled to contain the East Zone batsmen, with Tripurana Vijay claiming four wickets, while Mohammed Siraj had a challenging outing, bowling 25 overs without taking a wicket and conceding 140 runs. The historic innings by Kishan not only highlights his individual talent but also sets a formidable target for South Zone as they seek to respond in the ongoing final.
This performance by Kishan and his team is a testament to the depth and skill present in Indian domestic cricket, particularly in the Duleep Trophy, which has a rich history of showcasing emerging talents and seasoned players alike. As the final progresses, all eyes will be on South Zone to see how they will counter this impressive total.
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