Bengal vs Haryana Match Preview – Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025

Date: December 8, 2025
Time: 05:30 GMT
Venue: Hyderabad
Group: Elite Group C

As the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 enters its final phase of group-stage action, Bengal and Haryana meet in a crucial clash at Hyderabad. With the knockout stage just around the corner, both teams are eager to secure a strong position in the points table and bolster their chances of progressing further in the tournament.

Match Context

Bengal, a traditional powerhouse in Indian domestic cricket, have had a mixed campaign so far in the 2025 edition. While they have shown glimpses of brilliance with their explosive batting and disciplined bowling, they have struggled at times with consistency. Key performers like skipper Robin Uthappa and fast bowler Sandeep Warrier will be looking to deliver in this high-stakes encounter.

Haryana, on the other hand, have been a surprise package in the tournament. Their balanced squad, featuring experienced campaigners and emerging talents, has allowed them to compete with the best in the group. Opener Abhimanyu Easwaran and pacer Prabhsimran Singh have been among the standout performers for the side, and their form will be pivotal in this match.

Team Form and Strengths

Bengal

Bengal’s batting lineup is one of the most potent in domestic T20 cricket, with a blend of experience and youth. Robin Uthappa, who has been in fine form this season, anchors the innings and provides the perfect balance between aggression and caution. The middle order, led by Abhishek Goswami and Rishad Hossain, offers the necessary firepower to accelerate the scoring rate.

On the bowling end, Bengal will rely on their pace attack, particularly Sandeep Warrier and Varun Chakravarthy. Chakravarthy’s ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets in the middle overs has made him a key asset. However, Bengal’s inconsistency in the death overs has been a concern, and they will need to address this if they are to post competitive totals.

Haryana

Haryana, though not traditionally a top-tier team, have shown great adaptability and resilience this season. Abhimanyu Easwaran has been in stellar form, scoring crucial runs at the top of the order. His partnership with the explosive Prabhsimran Singh has often set the tone for Haryana’s innings.

In the bowling department, Haryana are led by Prabhsimran Singh, who has been a revelation with the ball. His ability to generate pace and extract movement off the surface has made him a dangerous option in the powerplay. Allrounder Ravi Bishnoi also brings value with both bat and ball, and his leg-spin could be a key factor in tricky chasing situations.

Head-to-Head and Venue Insights

Historically, Bengal and Haryana have had competitive encounters in domestic T20 cricket, with neither side holding a clear advantage. However, Bengal’s superior experience and higher-ranked players give them a slight edge on paper.

The match will be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, a venue known for its balanced conditions. The pitch tends to assist both batters and bowlers, with occasional turn on offer. This makes it a perfect ground for allrounders and teams with a balanced squad.

Predictions and Key Matchups

• Robin Uthappa (Bengal) vs Prabhsimran Singh (Haryana): A battle of the openers, with Singh looking to exploit Uthappa’s early dismissal with his pace and swing.
• Abhimanyu Easwaran (Haryana) vs Sandeep Warrier (Bengal): Easwaran’s technical solidity against Warrier’s pace could be a key determinant in the match's outcome.
• Ravi Bishnoi (Haryana) vs Bengal’s Batsmen: Bishnoi’s leg-spin could trouble Bengal’s middle order, especially if the pitch offers assistance.

Broadcast and Streaming Information

The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network and streamed on the Jio Hotstar app and website. Cricket fans across India can catch all the action live as Bengal and Haryana battle it out for a crucial win in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025.

Final Thoughts

This is a must-win encounter for both teams as they look to secure a favorable position in the group. Bengal, with their experience and firepower, are slight favorites, but Haryana’s form and adaptability make them a dangerous opponent. The result could go either way, and fans can expect a thrilling contest of skill and strategy.

Prediction: Bengal by 5-6 runs.