Chennai, Sept. 9 -- East Zone strengthened their control on the Duleep Trophy 2026 final as they reached 212/5, leading by 584 runs in their second innings at stumps on Day 4 against South Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday.

East Zone, who had posted a giant total of 708 in their first innings, now lead by 584 runs. Kumar Kushagra remained unbeaten on 34 off 55 balls at the close of play, while Md Kounain Quraishi was also unbeaten on 26 off 30 deliveries. Kushagra struck three fours, while Quraishi hit two fours and a six.

It turned out to be a highly productive day for the bowlers, with nine wickets falling across three sessions. East Zone wrapped up the South Zone tail early in the morning and, as expected, ch...