Why Ishan Kishan is Not Wicketkeeping in EZ vs SZ Duleep Trophy Final? Here's the New Keeper

Ishan Kishan has been seen on the field for East Zone during the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2026 final against South Zone, but the wicketkeeping gloves have been handed to Kumar Kushagra. The change has caught attention as Kishan is the regular wicketkeeper and captain of the East Zone side. The reason behind the change is related to Kishan's workload from the previous day's play.

Ishan Kishan Duleep Trophy knock was sensational as he smashed 270 runs and spent a huge amount of time at the crease. He also experienced some issues with cramps after batting for such a long period in Chennai's demanding conditions. As a result, Kishan is still present on the field and continuing to lead his team, but he has opted not to take up the wicketkeeping duties.

While he has recovered sufficiently to remain involved in the match, taking the gloves would require him to spend long periods crouching behind the stumps and repeatedly moving across the wicket.

Why Ishan Kishan Not Wicketkeeping in Duleep Trophy Final?

Ishan Kishan's decision to stay away from wicketkeeping duties comes after an extraordinary batting effort on the previous day. The East Zone captain and one of the best wicketkeeper batsmen in the world played a memorable knock of the tournament, scoring a massive 270 runs and taking his side to a mammoth score of 708 runs in the first innings.

His innings required considerable physical effort, particularly given the hot and humid conditions in Chennai, where spending several hours at the crease can take a toll on a player's fitness. Ishan Kishan also faced cramp-related issues during his marathon innings, which made the workload even more demanding.

Rather than keeping Kishan completely away from the action, East Zone have retained him on the field while Kumar Kushagra has taken over the wicketkeeping responsibilities. The move also means Kishan can continue playing his leadership role on the field without placing additional physical strain on himself.