Goa, Aug. 1 -- The East Zone selection committee has defended its decision to appoint 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as vice-captain for the upcoming Duleep Trophy, insisting the move is aimed at preparing the youngster for future leadership responsibilities rather than signalling a change in the team's hierarchy.

While Ishan Kishan's appointment as captain came as little surprise, Sooryavanshi's elevation attracted attention given the presence of seasoned cricketers such as Abhimanyu Easwaran, Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar in the squad.

The teenage batter has played just eight first-class matches for Bihar, a modest tally compared to Easwaran, who boasts more than 100 first-class appearances and has previously captained Bengal, Ind...