Himachal Pradesh vs Punjab – Match Preview | Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite 2025

When Does the Match Start?

The T20 match between Himachal Pradesh (HIM) and Punjab (PUN) will take place on 26 November 2025, Wednesday, at 05:30 GMT (11:00 AM local time).

Venue and Pitch Report

The match will be held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal, Hyderabad, India. Although the pitch report is yet to be officially released, the stadium is known for its balanced nature, often favoring bowlers in the first innings. With the weather expected to be cool, teams will need to adapt to the conditions and make strategic choices ahead of the toss.

Match Format and Series

This is a T20 match as part of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite, Group C. The tournament is one of the premier domestic T20 competitions in India, bringing together the best state teams in a bid for glory.

Umpires and Match Referee

Details regarding the umpires and match referee will be announced closer to the match date.

Head-to-Head and Team Form

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has shown decent performances in their recent matches, with a strong batting lineup led by Mayank Dagar, who has been in excellent form with the bat and ball. Dagar has scored 119 runs and taken 6 wickets in the last five matches. His all-round contribution can be crucial for the team.

The middle and lower order, including Pukhraj Mann (20 runs) and Ekant Sen (23 runs), have also provided support. In bowling, Vaibhav Arora and Arpit Guleria have been reliable with the ball, taking 8 wickets each, giving the team a solid bowling attack.

Punjab

Punjab, on the other hand, is one of the strong teams in the competition. Their batting lineup has been led by Abhishek Sharma, who has scored 163 runs in the last five matches, followed closely by Naman Dhir (143 runs) and Anmolpreet Singh (139 runs). The middle order, including Nehal Wadhera (92 runs), has also contributed significantly.

Punjab's bowling attack is equally formidable. Mayank Markande and Harpreet Brar have taken 7 wickets each, while Ashwani Kumar and Gurnoor Singh Brar have chipped in with 6 wickets each. The presence of experienced bowlers and a balanced squad gives Punjab a strong advantage.

Key Players to Watch

• Mayank Dagar (HIM): A key all-rounder who can change the game with both bat and ball.
• Abhishek Sharma (PUN): Punjab's top run-scorer in the last five matches and a crucial player for his team.
• Mayank Markande (PUN): A wicket-taking machine with the ball.
• Vaibhav Arora (HIM): A consistent performer with the ball for Himachal Pradesh.

Prediction and Expectations

This match promises to be a tight contest between two well-balanced teams. Punjab, with their top-order firepower and strong bowling unit, are slight favorites. However, Himachal Pradesh's all-round capabilities and the home advantage could make the difference.

The toss might be a pivotal moment, with the team winning the toss likely to opt to bowl first, given the expected conditions.

Where to Watch and Live Score

Live updates and scores for the Himachal Pradesh vs Punjab match will be available on dedicated cricket score websites and live sports apps. Fans can also follow ball-by-ball commentary to catch all the action as it unfolds.

Conclusion

This T20 encounter in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. Both teams come into the match with strong squads and the potential to upset each other. The result will depend on who executes their game plan better and adapts to the conditions.

Catch the action at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on 26 November 2025, and get ready for some exciting cricket!
“`