Goa vs Maharashtra Match Preview – Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025

Date: Monday, 8 December 2025
Time: 12:40 PM IST
Venue: Jadavpur University Campus, Kolkata
Format: T20

Match Context

The Goa vs Maharashtra clash is one of the highly anticipated fixtures of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Group B on Day 12 of the tournament. Both teams are in a crucial phase of their campaign, aiming to secure a favorable position for the knockouts. With the competition intensifying, this match is expected to be a tight and thrilling contest.

Team Form and Strengths

Goa

Goa has had a moderate start to the tournament, with a mix of performances that showcased glimpses of potential but also inconsistency. Their key strength lies in their explosive batting, with the likes of Rohit Shelke and Rahul Chahar providing the team with a solid base and a finishing flourish.

However, their bowling attack has at times been vulnerable, especially against strong batting line-ups. If Goa can exploit the initial conditions and build pressure early, they could capitalize on any mis-hits or wickets.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra, on the other hand, has been more consistent in their performances, with a balanced squad that offers both batting depth and bowling variety. The presence of experienced campaigners like Amit Mishra and Rohit Paudel adds stability to their middle order and gives them a chance to chase or defend effectively.

Their bowling unit, led by Shivam Dube and Siddhesh Lad, has been a key asset, particularly in the death overs. If they can contain Goa’s aggressive batters and pick up crucial early wickets, they could dominate the match.

Key Players to Watch

• Goa:

  • Rohit Shelke: The seasoned opener has been the backbone of Goa’s innings, often anchoring the top order and setting the tone for the chase.
  • Rahul Chahar: A dangerous finisher with the bat and a consistent all-rounder with the ball, Chahar's all-round contribution could be pivotal.

• Maharashtra:

  • Rohit Paudel: A match-winner with the bat, Paudel’s ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs can shift the momentum in Maharashtra’s favor.
  • Shivam Dube: The left-arm pacer has been instrumental in picking up wickets and containing the opposition, especially during the death overs.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The pitch at Jadavpur University Campus, Kolkata, is expected to be a moderate-paced surface, offering some assistance to both batters and bowlers, especially during the initial and middle overs. With a relatively neutral outfield, the toss could play a crucial role in determining the game's outcome.

Weather conditions are expected to remain clear and pleasant, with no threat of rain or humidity affecting the game. This should allow both teams to play their natural game plans.

Toss Prediction

The toss is likely to be a deciding factor in this match. Given the nature of the pitch, a side winning the toss may prefer to bat first and post a competitive total, leveraging the early part of the innings when the ball is fresh and the surface is at its best.

Match Prediction

This match promises to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having the firepower to win. However, Maharashtra's balanced squad and consistent performances give them a slight edge. If they can capitalize on early wickets and control the flow of the game, they could emerge victorious.

Predicted Winner: Maharashtra

Fantasy Tips

• Captaincy Pick: Rohit Paudel (Maharashtra) – A match-winner with the bat.
• Wicket-keeper: Sanjeev Kumar (Maharashtra) – Provides balance in the middle order.
• Bowler: Shivam Dube (Maharashtra) – A consistent wicket-taker in T20 formats.
• All-rounder: Rahul Chahar (Goa) – Can change the game with both bat and ball.

Telecast & Streaming:

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website
• Live Score & Updates: Available on the official BCCI website and JioHotstar

Stay Tuned: For live updates, analysis, and post-match reactions, follow the official Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy coverage. The Goa vs Maharashtra clash is set to be a must-watch encounter in the SMAT 2025.
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