Manipur vs Arunachal Pradesh – Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26 Match Preview – 1 November 2025

Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium Ground ‘B’, Motera, Ahmedabad
Date: 1 November 2025 – 4 November 2025
Timing: 9:30 IST / 04:00 GMT
Match Format: First-Class
Competition: Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26
Broadcast: Star Sports / JioCinema (Hotstar)

Match Overview

The Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26 continues to deliver competitive cricket as Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh meet in a crucial first-class encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground ‘B’ in Ahmedabad. This match, scheduled for 1 November to 4 November 2025, is set to be a key contest in the Plate group as both teams look to lay the foundation for a strong campaign in the tournament.

Manipur: A Team in Transition

Manipur comes into this match with high expectations. The team has shown potential in the past, particularly in the domestic circuit, and with a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, they are eager to make a statement in the Plate group.

The Manipuri batting lineup, led by their strong middle-order, is expected to provide a solid foundation. If the bowlers can exploit any early turn or seam movement, the team can capitalise on a strong start. Their spinners, in particular, could be key if the pitch offers assistance.

Arunachal Pradesh: Underestimated but Capable

Arunachal Pradesh, though relatively new to the higher echelons of domestic cricket, has shown promise in recent seasons. The team has a balanced lineup, with aggressive batters and a quick seam attack that can trouble even the best of line-ups.

Their previous encounter with Manipur will be closely studied, and if they managed to gain an edge in the last meeting, it could play on the minds of the Manipuri players. Arunachal’s consistency in the Plate group will depend on their ability to convert strong starts into victories.

Key Players to Watch

Manipur:

• Wicketkeeper-Batsman: A dependable presence at the back end of the innings, crucial for chasing totals.
• Spin All-Rounder: Expected to play a pivotal role in the middle overs, especially if the pitch offers assistance.
• Fast Bowler: With the ability to swing the ball and generate pace, he could trouble the Arunachal batters.

Arunachal Pradesh:

• Opener: A technically sound batsman who can anchor the innings and set the tone for the rest of the batting line-up.
• Aggressive Middle-Order Batsman: Known for his ability to accelerate the scoring rate when needed.
• Seam Bowler: A consistent performer in domestic cricket, with the ability to take early wickets.

Venue Insights

The Narendra Modi Stadium Ground ‘B’ in Ahmedabad is a high-quality venue that typically offers a good batting surface, especially on the first two days. The track is well-maintained and known to assist spinners in the later sessions.

With the match starting on a Wednesday, the pitch could remain relatively even, making it a contest where batting depth and tactical bowling could be decisive. The spin-friendly nature of the ground may come into play on the fourth day, if the match remains in balance.

Head-to-Head and Previous Encounter

Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh have met in previous domestic fixtures, with Manipur often holding the upper hand. However, Arunachal has shown resilience and the ability to bounce back in tight contests. The previous meeting saw Manipur dominate the proceedings, but the margin of victory was not decisive, leaving room for Arunachal to believe in their chances.

Prediction

This match promises to be a closely fought encounter between two teams eager to secure a strong start in the Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26. Manipur’s experience and depth could give them the edge, but Arunachal Pradesh’s aggressive approach and tactical acumen might surprise the more fancied side.

If the pitch remains even and the weather is clear, both teams have the capability to post competitive totals. However, the match could hinge on the ability of the spinners to take control on the final day.

Prediction: Manipur to win by a narrow margin, possibly with a draw in mind.

How to Watch

Fans can catch all the action live on Star Sports or stream it on JioCinema (Hotstar). Coverage will include expert analysis, live commentary, and in-depth highlights.

Conclusion

The clash between Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26 is a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts. With a high-quality venue, evenly matched teams, and a competitive Plate group, the match promises to deliver exciting cricket. Both teams have the potential to secure a win, making this encounter one of the key fixtures in the early stages of the tournament.

Stay tuned for all the action from Ahmedabad as the Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26 continues to unfold.
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