Bengal vs Gujarat: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Match Preview (28th November 2025, 11:00 GMT)

The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 continues its high-octane journey with a crucial clash between Bengal and Gujarat at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal Hyderabad. Scheduled to start at 11:00 GMT, this Group C encounter promises to be a thrilling T20 spectacle as both teams look to bolster their points tally in the competition.

Match Context

Both Bengal and Gujarat come into this match with contrasting performances in recent tournaments. Bengal, a historically strong team in domestic cricket, has shown flashes of brilliance in the tournament, relying on a balanced squad and a strong bowling attack. Gujarat, on the other hand, has been in good form, with a solid batting lineup and a bowling unit that can exploit different conditions.

As this match is part of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite 2025, both teams are vying to establish themselves as top contenders in the group stage. Victory in this match could be pivotal for either side in their journey to the knockout stages.

Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal Hyderabad

The venue, the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, is known for its balanced pitch that supports both batting and bowling. Recent matches at this venue have seen scores ranging from 140 to 180, with the toss often playing a decisive role. Teams batting first can post competitive totals, while the chasing side can also be in with a good chance if they start well.

Team Form and Strengths

Bengal

Bengal boasts a squad with a rich blend of experienced campaigners and emerging stars. The team has a strong batting lineup anchored by the likes of Suyash Prabhudessai and Soumya Sarkar, who can accelerate the innings when needed.

The bowling attack includes Rinku Singh, a left-arm spinner who has been a consistent performer in domestic T20s, and Ravi Bishnoi, whose variations can trouble even the best batters. Bengal will look to their spinners to provide breakthroughs in the middle overs.

Gujarat

Gujarat has been in excellent form in recent domestic tournaments and has a well-rounded squad. The batting unit is bolstered by Rahul Tewatia, a dynamic finisher with a high strike rate, and Chetil Thakor, who has been in good form with both bat and ball.

The pace attack includes Rohit Sharma (if selected) and Mohammad Shami (if playing for Gujarat), providing a lethal threat with the new ball. Gujarat's ability to bowl tight lines and execute effective variations could be the key to their success in this match.

Key Players to Watch

• Suyash Prabhudessai (Bengal) – A consistent run-scorer and a match-winner in the middle overs.
• Rahul Tewatia (Gujarat) – A destructive finisher with a proven ability to change the course of the game in the final overs.
• Rinku Singh (Bengal) – A left-arm spinner who can turn the game in the middle overs with his variations.
• Mohammad Shami (Gujarat) – A world-class fast bowler who can trouble the opposition with his yorkers and slower deliveries.
• Soumya Sarkar (Bengal) – A top-order batsman with a good strike rate, capable of anchoring the innings.

Match Prediction

The match between Bengal and Gujarat is expected to be a closely contested affair. With the toss being a crucial factor, the team winning the toss and electing to bat first could set a challenging target on a pitch that offers some assistance to the bowlers early on.

If Bengal can post a score in the mid to high 150s, it will put pressure on Gujarat's batters, especially if the spinners can maintain their line and length. Conversely, if Gujarat scores first, their explosive finishers could capitalize on any soft moments in the Bengal bowling attack.

Prediction: This match is expected to be a tight contest, with both teams having equal chances. However, Gujarat might have a slight edge due to their balanced squad and recent form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Conclusion

The Bengal vs Gujarat clash on 28th November 2025 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium promises to be a gripping encounter. With both teams having strong batting and bowling units, the result could hinge on the performance in the middle overs and the ability to handle pressure in the final overs. Cricket fans can look forward to a high-scoring and action-packed T20 match.
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