MAH vs SER: Group E Prediction & Preview | Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

By Alex, CricTips Editorial Team · How we predict. Every prediction is reviewed under the CricTips editorial methodology.

MAH vs SER T20 Match 118, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, 2024 Preview

The Maharashtra cricket team is set to face off against the Services cricket team in the 118th match of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. The match is scheduled to take place on December 5th, 2024, at the Gymkhana Ground in Hyderabad, with the first ball being bowled at 5:30 AM GMT.

Team Overview

Maharashtra, led by their skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, has had a mixed bag of results in the tournament so far. With 3 wins and 3 losses, they are currently placed in the middle of the points table in Group E. The team has been relying heavily on the batting prowess of their top-order batsmen, including Gaikwad, Ankit Bawne, and Nikhil Naik.

On the other hand, Services, led by captain Rajat Paliwal, has had a decent run in the tournament, with 4 wins and 2 losses. They are currently placed third in Group E and will be looking to continue their winning momentum against Maharashtra.

Head-to-Head

The two teams have met each other on several occasions in the past, with Maharashtra having a slight edge over Services. However, considering the current form and team dynamics, it's difficult to predict a clear winner.

Pitch Conditions

The Gymkhana Ground in Hyderabad is known for its pace-friendly conditions, which could favor the fast bowlers from both teams. The pitch is expected to be lively, with a lot of bounce and carry. The team that wins the toss might opt to bat first, considering the dew factor that might come into play later in the match.

Key Players to Watch

• Ruturaj Gaikwad (Maharashtra): The skipper has been in good form, scoring crucial runs at the top of the order. He will be looking to continue his good form against Services.
• Ankit Bawne (Maharashtra): Bawne has been a consistent performer for Maharashtra, scoring vital runs in the middle order. He will be looking to anchor the innings and take his team to a competitive total.
• Rajat Paliwal (Services): The skipper has been leading from the front, scoring crucial runs and taking important wickets. He will be looking to continue his good form against Maharashtra.
• Diwesh Pathania (Services): Pathania has been the standout bowler for Services, taking wickets at regular intervals. He will be looking to trouble the Maharashtra batsmen with his variations.

Prediction

Considering the team dynamics and current form, Maharashtra might have a slight edge over Services. However, the match is expected to be a closely contested one, with both teams having the potential to win.

Fantasy XI

• Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ankit Bawne, Rajat Paliwal, Nikhil Naik
• All-Rounders: Diwesh Pathania, Azim Kazi
• Bowlers: Satyajeet Bachhav, Manoj Ingale, Rajvardhan Hangargekar
• Wicket-Keeper: Swapnil Fulpagar