Gujarat vs Services – Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Match Preview

Date: December 24, 2025
Time: 03:30 GMT / 09:00 IST
Venue: KSCA Cricket 2 Ground, Alur

Match Overview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 kicks off in style with a competitive encounter between Gujarat and Services at the KSCA Cricket 2 Ground in Alur. While the tournament has drawn attention due to the rare returns of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for their domestic teams, this early match between Gujarat and Services sets the stage for a thrilling domestic season.

Gujarat, a consistent performer in domestic cricket, will be looking to make a strong start in Group D, which also features Haryana, Railways, and Delhi. On the other hand, Services, a team known for its disciplined approach and quality fast bowling, will aim to take advantage of the neutral venue and make a statement.

Team Insights

Gujarat

Gujarat has been one of the most competitive teams in recent Vijay Hazare campaigns, often challenging the top teams with their balanced squad. The team has a strong batting line-up with experienced players like Rajat Patidar, Chirag Jani, and Harsh Gaur who have shown consistency in the 50-over format.

In the bowling department, Gujarat boasts of a reliable attack with Rashid Khan, Aryan Nehra, and Bhavik Patel providing a mix of spin and pace. Their ability to control the middle overs and execute a tight death attack will be crucial against Services' aggressive batting unit.

Gujarat's experience in high-pressure matches and their ability to chase down stiff targets will be key assets in this opening fixture.

Services

Services, often underestimated but always dangerous, have a reputation for producing quality players and maintaining a strong team culture. The team is known for its disciplined bowling and ability to chase down targets with composure.

The batting line-up includes Srikar Bharat, a former India U-19 player who has shown promise in domestic cricket, and Shreyas Gopal, who has been in excellent form with both bat and ball. Services' strength lies in their spin department, with Mohammed Siraj and Rahul Chahar forming a lethal spin duo.

Services will be looking to capitalize on Gujarat's early nerves and set a foundation for their campaign in the tournament.

Weather and Venue Conditions

The KSCA Cricket 2 Ground in Alur is a neutral venue that generally offers a flat pitch, favoring batters. With the match starting in the early morning (GMT) and finishing in the afternoon, the conditions are expected to remain consistent throughout the game.

A flat track could lead to high-scoring encounters, and both teams will need to be cautious with the new ball to avoid early setbacks. The spin-friendly nature of the pitch might come into play in the latter stages, giving Services an edge if they manage to hold back their spinners.

Key Matchups

• Rajat Patidar (Gujarat) vs Services' spin duo (Rahul Chahar & Mohammed Siraj): Patidar's ability to read spin and rotate the strike could determine Gujarat's batting success.
• Shreyas Gopal (Services) vs Gujarat's middle order: Gopal's all-round ability could play a pivotal role in breaking crucial partnerships.
• Aryan Nehra (Gujarat) vs Srikar Bharat (Services): This battle could be a turning point in the match, with Nehra's pace and bounce challenging Bharat's technique.

Prediction and Verdict

This match promises to be a close contest between two well-balanced teams. Gujarat's experience and strong batting line-up give them a slight edge, but Services' disciplined approach and spin strength could make them a tough opponent.

Prediction:
Gujarat to win by 5-10 runs
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Rajat Patidar (Gujarat)

Broadcast and Live Streaming

The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar app & website and WB Suite, with selected matches also available on Star Sports Network. Fans can follow all the action as the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 gets underway with this exciting clash between Gujarat and Services.

For more updates and in-depth analysis, stay tuned to cricket news platforms and follow the latest developments in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26.
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