Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: Andhra vs Delhi – Match Preview (24 December 2025, 03:30 GMT)

Match Details

• Teams: Andhra vs Delhi
• Date: 24 December 2025
• Time: 03:30 GMT (09:00 IST)
• Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru
• Tournament Stage: Elite Group D, Round 1
• Format: 50-Over List A Match

Match Context

The 2025-26 edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy kicks off on 24 December, and the opening match of Group D promises an exciting clash between Andhra and Delhi. This fixture not only marks the start of the tournament but also features one of the most anticipated domestic comebacks in recent memory: Virat Kohli is set to make his return to the domestic circuit after 15 years, representing Delhi in the tournament.

With Kohli’s return and the presence of several other seasoned campaigners, this match is expected to be a high-quality 50-over encounter. Both teams will be eager to make a strong start in the group stage, with Delhi looking to capitalize on their star power and Andhra aiming to impress on home soil.

Team Insights

Andhra Pradesh

• Form: Andhra have been a consistent force in domestic cricket in recent years, with a strong batting lineup and a disciplined bowling unit.
• Key Players:
  • Shreyas Iyer (captain): A dynamic middle-order batsman with a flair for aggressive scoring.
  • N Jagadeesan: One of the most prolific run-scorers in domestic cricket, known for his consistency and ability to anchor the innings.
  • Ravi Tandon: A key all-rounder who provides both seam and spin support.
• Venue Advantage: Playing at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Andhra will be familiar with the conditions and will aim to use this to their advantage.

Delhi

• Form: Delhi are always a strong contender in domestic tournaments, especially with the return of Virat Kohli to the team.
• Key Players:
  • Virat Kohli: Making a historic comeback to domestic cricket after 15 years, Kohli will be looking to reach 16,000 List A runs in his career.
  • Rishabh Pant: The wicketkeeper-batsman is expected to lead the scoring charge alongside Kohli.
  • Chetan Sakariya: A consistent spinner who can trouble batters with his variations and flight.
• Team Strengths: Delhi's experience and depth in batting will be their key advantage. With Kohli and Pant in the lineup, they have the firepower to chase down any total.

Pitch & Weather Outlook

The BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 in Bengaluru is a well-balanced pitch that offers good support to both batters and bowlers. The surface is usually true, with the first 20 overs often favoring the pacers. However, the spin-friendly nature of the pitch becomes more apparent as the game progresses, especially in the last 15-20 overs.

With the weather in Bengaluru expected to be clear and dry, both teams can prepare for a full 50-over game without any interruptions.

Head-to-Head

The history between Andhra and Delhi is evenly contested, with both teams having had their share of wins in recent domestic fixtures. However, with Delhi boasting a star-studded lineup and Andhra relying on their home advantage, the match could go either way.

Prediction

This is a must-watch match for any cricket fan. While Delhi have the advantage of playing with world-class players like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant, Andhra are a strong team in their own right and will not go down without a fight.

Prediction: A close match with Delhi edging it slightly due to their experience and firepower.
Expected Result: Delhi by 10-15 runs.

Key Matchups

• Virat Kohli vs Andhra's spinners: Kohli’s ability to adapt to spin will be crucial for Delhi’s chase.
• Shreyas Iyer vs Delhi's pacers: Iyer will look to dominate the initial overs and set the platform for the lower order.
• Ravi Tandon vs Delhi's middle-order: Tandon’s all-round skills could play a pivotal role in breaking key partnerships.

Final Thoughts

The Andhra vs Delhi match on 24 December is not just the opener of the Vijay Hazare Trophy but also a landmark game in domestic cricket due to Virat Kohli’s return. With both teams having quality players and a balanced pitch, this match is expected to set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Fans can look forward to a thrilling 50-over encounter that blends experience, talent, and the excitement of a new season.
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