Maharashtra vs Saurashtra Match Preview – 1st November 2025

Venue: [TBD]
Time: 04:00 GMT / 09:30 AM IST
Format: Ranji Trophy Elite 2025/26
Series Stage: Regular Season
Toss Result: Saurashtra won the toss and elected to field.
Weather Conditions: Overcast with a 20% chance of rain.

Match Overview

Maharashtra and Saurashtra meet in what promises to be an intriguing encounter in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2025/26. With Saurashtra opting to field first, the strategy for both teams will be crucial in shaping the match’s flow. The overcast conditions could favor the bowlers initially, but the drying pitch could aid batting as the game progresses.

Maharashtra, led by a strong batting unit and a balanced bowling attack, are slight favorites in this contest. Saurashtra, however, are no pushovers, with a well-rounded squad that includes experienced campaigners like Jaydev Unadkat and Chetan Sakariya.

Team Analysis

Maharashtra (MAH)

Key Players:

• Prithvi Shaw – The dynamic opener brings aggressive strokeplay and the ability to shift gears.
• Ruturaj Gaikwad – A mainstay in the middle order, known for his consistency and adaptability.
• Ankit Bawne – A reliable all-rounder with a solid batting technique and useful off-spin.
• Arshin Kulkarni – A crucial bowler with a good record in domestic cricket.

Bowling Attack:

• Jalaj Saxena, Siddhesh Veer, and Hitesh Walunj provide options for both seam and spin. Siddhesh Veer in particular is a standout performer with his ability to pick up wickets under pressure.

Wicketkeepers:

• Saurabh Nawale and Mandar Bhandari are both solid choices, with Bhandari being a more active pick for fantasy teams.

Saurashtra (SAU)

Key Players:

• Chirag Jani – A seasoned campaigner who can anchor the innings and accelerate when required.
• Jaydev Unadkat – A seasoned all-rounder who has been a consistent performer in the Ranji Trophy.
• Harvik Desai (WK) – A reliable wicketkeeper-batsman with a good eye for scoring runs.

Bowling Attack:

• Chetan Sakariya – One of the standout performers in Saurashtra's line-up. His ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets makes him a key player.
• Arpit Vasavada – A medium-pacer who is effective in the middle overs and can trouble batters with variations.

Pitch and Weather Insights

The pitch is expected to assist seamers initially, with the overcast conditions likely to aid swing. However, as the match progresses and the surface dries, it may become more conducive to batting. Teams will need to adapt their strategies accordingly.

The 20% chance of rain might be a minor concern, but unless it materializes, the match is expected to proceed as scheduled.

Match Prediction

Maharashtra are favored to win this contest due to their balanced squad and current form. The key will be their top-order batters capitalizing on the conditions, while their bowlers keep the pressure on Saurashtra's batsmen. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw could be the difference-makers for Maharashtra, while Saurashtra will rely on Chetan Sakariya and Jaydev Unadkat to deliver under pressure.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

Small League Must-Picks:

• Ruturaj Gaikwad (MAH) – A consistent performer in domestic cricket.
• Arshin Kulkarni (MAH) – A key bowler with a good record.
• Chetan Sakariya (SAU) – High points potential due to wicket-taking ability.
• Harvik Desai (SAU) – Reliable wicketkeeper with decent scoring ability.

Grand League Risky Picks:

• Prithvi Shaw (MAH) – Explosive opener with high potential but can be inconsistent.
• Hetvik Kotak (SAU) – Emerging talent with a good strike rate.
• Samar Gajjar (SAU) – Useful all-rounder with a developing game.

Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions:

• Captain: Ruturaj Gaikwad or Jaydev Unadkat – Both are consistent performers with high fantasy points potential.
• Vice-Captain: Chetan Sakariya or Arshin Kulkarni – Both are strong wicket-takers and can deliver in both innings.

Injury & Availability

As of now, there are no injury reports for either team. Fantasy and betting teams can proceed with the full squads in mind.

Streaming & Broadcast Details

• Live Score & Commentary: Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, Possible11
• Live Broadcast: FanCode

Final Thoughts

This is a crucial fixture for both teams as they look to establish momentum in the tournament. Maharashtra, with their balanced squad and current form, are slight favorites. However, Saurashtra’s experience and quality should not be underestimated. The battle for wickets and the ability to chase down a competitive total will define the match.

Prediction: Maharashtra to Win by a narrow margin, with a close finish expected.

Disclaimer: This preview is based on available information as of 1st November 2025. Fantasy selections and predictions may vary based on real-time developments closer to the match.

Let me know if you'd like a version tailored for a specific platform or audience (e.g., fantasy, betting, or general viewers).