Tilak Varma’s on-field exchange with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become one of the talking points of the Duleep Trophy final, with the South Zone captain appearing to take a dig at the teenage batter during East Zone’s innings.

The incident was captured by the stump microphone and quickly spread on social media. Varma could be heard saying, “Kya yaar ye vice-captain?” while Sooryavanshi was batting, apparently referring to the youngster’s role as East Zone vice-captain.

ALSO READ: ‘Shouldn’t Have Closed the Door…’: Ex-India Coach Bharat Arun Questions Ajit Agarkar, Gautam Gambhir’s Decision On Mohammed Shami

Although the exchange appeared light-hearted between the two players, the incident has sparked debate among fans over whether such sledging was appropriate against a 15-year-old.

WATCH: Tilak Varma’s Sledge To Sooryavanshi

Sooryavanshi had made an aggressive start to the Duleep Trophy final and was particularly impressive against India pacer Mohammed Siraj. The teenager struck five fours and a six during his 44-run knock off 37 balls.

At one point during his innings, Varma's comment was picked up clearly by the stump microphone. The South Zone skipper appeared to question Sooryavanshi's vice-captaincy, prompting an exchange that did not appear particularly heated.

However, the moment took another turn after Sooryavanshi was dismissed for 44 by Chama V Milind not long afterwards. The sequence led some fans to jokingly suggest that Varma's sledge had worked, while others criticised the decision to target such a young player.

Fans Debate Tilak’s Conduct

The controversy largely stems from Sooryavanshi's age. At just 15, the youngster has already become one of Indian cricket's biggest emerging names, making the sight of an established India player sledging him a subject of discussion online.

Importantly, there was no clear indication that the exchange was hostile. Both Varma and Sooryavanshi were seen laughing shortly afterwards, suggesting that the players themselves did not treat the incident as a serious confrontation.

ALSO READ: ‘Still The Best Side To...’: Former Pakistan Cricketer Makes Bold Claim After Humiliating Loss To India In Asia Cup

Sooryavanshi Misses Another Fifty

Despite falling short of another half-century, Sooryavanshi once again showcased his attacking approach. He had earlier made history by becoming the youngest batter to score a Duleep Trophy fifty during the semi-final.

His latest innings ended at 44, but it was Varma's “Kya yaar ye vice-captain?” remark that ultimately stole the spotlight, and triggered a wider debate over sledging in domestic cricket.