Bihar vs Mizoram – Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26 Match Preview

Date: 16 – 19 November 2025
Venue: Moin ul Haq Stadium, Patna
Match Time: 09:30 IST (03:30 GMT)
Series: Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26
Match Format: First-Class

Match Context and Build-Up

The upcoming clash between Bihar and Mizoram at the Moin ul Haq Stadium in Patna marks one of the key fixtures in the Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26. Both teams are vying for strong performances to secure a place in the Plate Final, with each of the six teams competing in a round-robin format.

This will be their second meeting in the 2025-26 season, following an earlier encounter on 1 – 4 November, which saw Mizoram defeat Bihar by 135 runs. The result highlighted Mizoram's batting prowess and their ability to dominate with the ball when the conditions suit them.

The upcoming match will be crucial for both teams, especially as they continue their journey toward the Plate Final. With two matches remaining in the group stage, the result could significantly impact their standings.

Team Analysis

Bihar – Battling for Consistency

Bihar’s campaign has been mixed so far. Their performance in the first match against Mizoram revealed batting fragility and a lack of consistency in the middle order. The team managed 265 in the first innings, with Sakibul Gani (66) and Ayush Loharuka (63) offering some resistance. However, they were bowled out for a modest total.

Bihar will look to improve their batting depth and tighten their fielding. Their bowling, led by Ankur Malik (5/81), showed promise, and with a home advantage at Patna, they could capitalize on the local conditions. The pitch at the Moin ul Haq Stadium is expected to favor spinners in the later stages, which could be an opportunity for the hosts to exploit.

Mizoram – Rising Force in the Plate Group

Mizoram has been the standout team in the Plate group so far. Their victory over Bihar in the previous encounter was a statement of intent, with Al Bashid Muhammed (126) and Pheiroijam Singh (55) anchoring their innings to 400. The team’s ability to build large partnerships (183 and 90 runs in that match) and maintain a strong bowling attack has been key to their success.

Joseph Lalthankhuma (2/31) and the rest of the attack were clinical in the last match, and with a well-balanced squad, Mizoram is a team to be reckoned with. They will be eager to continue their winning momentum and establish themselves as a title contender in the Plate group.

Key Players to Watch

• Al Bashid Muhammed (Mizoram): The all-rounder has been a consistent performer with the bat and has the ability to anchor the innings. His form will be pivotal for Mizoram.
• Sakibul Gani (Bihar): Gani provided crucial runs in their last match and could be the key to stabilizing the top or middle order.
• Ankur Malik (Bihar): A wicket-taking threat in the first innings, Malik could once again be the difference-maker with the ball.
• Joseph Lalthankhuma (Mizoram): His economy and ability to break partnerships could put pressure on the Bihar batsmen.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Moin ul Haq Stadium in Patna typically offers a good batting surface in the early stages, with the track becoming spin-friendly as the match progresses. Given the humid and warm weather conditions in late November, the pitch is expected to assist spinners in the final two days.

Mizoram, with a strong spin department, might prefer chasing if they have a chance to bat second, while Bihar may aim to set a challenging total on a favorable batting surface.

Prediction and Expectations

This match promises to be a competitive and entertaining contest, with both teams having the potential to win. Mizoram, with their recent form and balanced squad, will enter as slight favorites. However, Bihar, backed by home advantage and the spin-friendly nature of the pitch, can't be ruled out.

If Bihar can improve their batting consistency and exploit the spin conditions, they might pull off an upset. But given Mizoram’s current momentum and superior all-round performance in the group, they are likely to emerge victorious.

Conclusion

The Bihar vs Mizoram clash on 16 – 19 November 2025 will be a crucial match in the Ranji Trophy Plate 2025-26. With both teams in search of a strong result, the match promises a high-quality first-class contest. Fans can expect a battle between Mizoram’s aggressive batting and Bihar’s home advantage and spin-friendly conditions.

Whether it's a chase or a total, this match will undoubtedly play a defining role in the Plate group standings.

How to Watch

The match will be televised live on Star Sports and streamed online via JioCinema (formerly Jio Hotstar). Fans can also follow live scores and updates on the BCCI website and app.

Final Verdict

Prediction: Mizoram to win by 50-75 runs, but a tight contest is expected.
Key Battle: Al Bashid Muhammed (Mizoram) vs Ankur Malik (Bihar)
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