Mohammed Shami’s cheeky banter with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has taken the spotlight after the huge Duleep Trophy success. The veteran Indian fast bowler has offered a light-hearted glimpse into his camaraderie with the 15-year-old batting sensation after the pair helped East Zone claim the Duleep Trophy 2026-27 title.
Shami’s cheeky banter with Sooryavanshi after Duleep Trophy success
Speaking after the final, Shami revealed the playful dynamic between the two teammates. He said:
“He loves pulling my leg!”
Shami added:
“I usually tease him back by saying he isn’t even as old as my cricket career.”
The 36-year-old added that the youngster’s constant banter was refreshing and that encouraging open communication would benefit Sooryavanshi’s development. The pair shared the dressing room for East Zone, where Sooryavanshi served as vice-captain under Ishan Kishan and occasionally stepped up as stand-in skipper.
Meanwhile, the other thing that has taken everyone’s attention is the bond between the two players. The teenager was captured presenting Shami with a special signed jersey from the squad to mark the pacer’s 100th first-class appearance.
Sooryavanshi, already the youngest player to represent India in international cricket, impressed with the bat during the tournament, including a record-breaking half-century that made him the youngest to achieve the feat in Duleep Trophy history.
Shami contributed useful wickets as East Zone secured the title via a substantial first-innings lead in the final against South Zone. The age-gap banter has drawn warm reactions, highlighting the blend of experience and youthful energy in the East Zone squad. The two combined to give the side the title after 13 long years.
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