Bengal vs Gujarat – Ranji Trophy Match Preview (October 25, 2025)

Date: October 25, 2025
Time: 04:30 GMT (03:30 Local Time)
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Format: First-Class (Ranji Trophy)
Day 1 Update: Gujarat elected to bowl

Match Overview

The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season is well underway, and one of the most anticipated fixtures on October 25, 2025, is the clash between Bengal and Gujarat at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This is a match that promises to deliver high stakes and competitive cricket, with both sides aiming to make a strong start in the tournament.

Gujarat, known for their aggressive and balanced squad, will look to capitalize on the decision to bowl first, hoping to exploit the early conditions at Eden Gardens, which often favor seam and swing. On the other hand, Bengal, a traditional power in domestic cricket, will aim to rebuild their legacy with a solid batting performance under the famous floodlights of the Eden Gardens.

Team Insights

Gujarat (GUJ)

Gujarat has been a rising force in domestic cricket in recent years, blending experienced campaigners with emerging talent. With the toss in their favor, they will look to make the most of the conditions to restrict Bengal's batting lineup.

Key Players to Watch:

• Kishitij Patel – A consistent opener with a strong temperament and good scoring rate.
• Aarya Desai – The aggressive middle-order batsman who can change the course of the game with a big score.
• Ravi Bishnoi – A death-overs specialist with the ability to bowl tight lines and take crucial wickets.
• Siddharth Desai – Reliable with the ball, especially in the middle overs.

Gujarat’s decision to bowl first suggests confidence in their bowling attack. A disciplined performance with the ball could put Bengal under pressure right from the start.

Bengal (BEN)

Bengal, playing at home, have a rich history at Eden Gardens and will be eager to make a statement. Their batting line-up is deep, and if they get off to a steady start, they can post a formidable total. However, their bowling will need to be at its best to counter Gujarat’s potent batting.

Key Players to Watch:

• Sumanta Gupta – A crucial opener for Bengal, known for his ability to anchor the innings.
• Abhishek Porel – A reliable wicketkeeper-batsman who adds balance to the side.
• Sudip Chatterjee – A versatile all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball.
• Mohammed Shami – A world-class fast bowler with the ability to take early wickets and provide breakthroughs.

Bengal’s challenge will be to handle the initial pressure from Gujarat's bowlers and build a platform for their middle and lower order. If they can post a competitive total, their all-round strength could make them a tough opponent.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The pitch at Eden Gardens usually offers a good balance, with the first innings often played on a true and slightly assisting surface for fast bowlers. The weather is expected to be clear with mild temperatures, which should favor both bat and ball.

Gujarat's decision to bowl first may indicate that they expect the pitch to assist seam early on, making it a potentially tricky challenge for Bengal's openers.

Head-to-Head

While the recent history between Bengal and Gujarat is closely contested, Bengal have the advantage of playing at home. However, Gujarat's aggressive brand of cricket and balanced squad can't be underestimated.

Prediction

This is a five-day match, and the outcome will largely depend on the first innings score and how the bowlers perform on the first day. If Bengal can post a solid total, they will be strong favorites. However, if Gujarat's bowlers can make early inroads and restrict Bengal to a below-par score, they could take control of the match.

Prediction: Bengal to win, but Gujarat will pose a strong challenge.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Sumanta Gupta vs Gujarat's pace attack
• Kishitij Patel vs Bengal's spinners
• Mohammed Shami vs Bengal's middle order
• Aarya Desai vs Bengal's bowlers

Conclusion

The Bengal vs Gujarat clash at Eden Gardens on October 25, 2025, is set to be an exciting encounter in the Ranji Trophy. With both sides coming into the match with a mix of experience and youth, it promises to be a tactical battle. The home advantage for Bengal, combined with the quality of their squad, could give them the edge, but Gujarat's aggressive approach and balanced team make them a dangerous opponent.

Cricket fans can look forward to a thrilling contest filled with skill, strategy, and high-quality domestic cricket at one of the most iconic venues in India.

Final Verdict: Bengal to win, but a close-fought battle.
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