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

Match Details

• Teams: Himachal Pradesh (HIM) vs Services (SER)
• Date & Time: 28 November 2025, 08:00 GMT
• Venue: Gymkhana Ground, Hyderabad
• Format: T20
• Series: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite – Group B

Match Preview

The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Group B clash between Himachal Pradesh and Services promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams look to make a strong start in the tournament. The match will be played at the Gymkhana Ground in Hyderabad, a venue known for its balanced nature, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers.

With the weather expected to be cool, the match could witness some tight contests, especially if the pitch offers some turn or reverse swing in the latter stages of the game.

Himachal Pradesh: A Balanced Unit with Explosive Potential

Himachal Pradesh has shown their potential in recent matches, with standout performances from the likes of Mayank Dagar, who has been a consistent run-scorer and a wicket-taking threat with the ball. His tally of 93 runs and 8 wickets in the last five matches makes him a key player to watch.

The top order, led by Ekant Sen (37 runs) and Nikhil Gangta (35 runs), has been solid, and with Ankush Bains providing support, the team looks well-equipped to post competitive totals.

In the bowling department, Vaibhav Arora and Mayank Dagar will be the key wicket-takers. Arora, in particular, has been instrumental with his 8 wickets in recent games, while Dagar’s all-round capabilities make him a dual threat.

Services: A Power-Packed Side with Strong Individuals

Services, on the other hand, boasts a formidable batting lineup led by Mohit Ahlawat, who has scored a staggering 232 runs in the last five matches. Mohit Jangra (207 runs) and Vikas Hathwala (69 runs) have also been in excellent form, giving the team a strong top and middle order.

Jangra’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball (4 wickets) adds depth to their side. The bowling attack is spearheaded by Pulkit Narang, who has taken 8 wickets in the last five matches, and Vishal Gaur, who has been effective with 4 wickets.

Services' balanced approach with a combination of explosive batters and experienced bowlers will make them a tough side to handle, especially on a pitch that could assist spin.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Mayank Dagar (HIM) vs Mohit Ahlawat (SER): The battle between Dagar’s all-round skills and Ahlawat’s explosive batting could be a defining factor in the game.
• Vaibhav Arora (HIM) vs Mohit Jangra (SER): Arora's left-arm spin could trouble Jangra, who has been in great form with the bat.
• Pulkit Narang (SER) vs Himachal’s Top Order: Narang’s ability to pick up wickets at crucial junctures will test the solidity of Himachal’s openers.

Prediction

This is shaping up to be a closely contested match. Himachal Pradesh have the edge with their balanced squad and Dagar's all-round threat, while Services' firepower and consistency in the middle order could tilt the game in their favor. The toss will be crucial, and whoever wins it will look to make the most of the conditions.

Prediction: A close match with Services slightly favored to win, but Himachal Pradesh are capable of pulling off a surprise.

Final Word

Cricket fans can look forward to an exciting contest where both teams will be eager to start their campaign on a high. The battle between the experienced Services and the in-form Himachal Pradesh will be a treat for T20 purists.

Time to get ready for an action-packed encounter at the Gymkhana Ground, Hyderabad!
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