Himachal Pradesh vs Uttarakhand – Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Match Preview

Date: December 24, 2025
Time: 03:30 GMT (09:00 IST)
Venue: TBA

Match Context

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 kicks off, the clash between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand promises to be an intriguing encounter. Both teams will be eager to make a strong start in the group stage, with the aim of securing a favorable position in Elite Group C.

Himachal Pradesh, known for their disciplined approach in limited-overs cricket, will look to capitalize on a potentially batting-friendly pitch. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand, led by the experienced Jagadeesha Suchith, are considered strong favorites in this match based on current form and player availability.

Team Analysis

Himachal Pradesh

• Strengths:
  Himachal has a balanced squad with a strong middle-order and experienced wicketkeeper-batter in Innesh Mahajan. Vaibhav Arora, a key performer for the side, has shown consistency with the bat and can anchor the innings. Pukhraj Mann and Ankit Kalsi also offer reliable starts at the top.

• Key Players to Watch:

  • Vaibhav Arora – A crucial run-scorer in the middle overs.
  • Pukhraj Mann – Expected to open the innings and provide a solid foundation.
  • Ankit Kalsi – A dependable top-order batter.
  • Innesh Mahajan – The wicketkeeper who can contribute with both bat and gloves.

• Tactical Considerations:
  With a likely batting-friendly pitch, Himachal needs to post a competitive total. The focus will be on rotating the strike and ensuring a solid middle-order effort to chase down or defend a total in the 160s.

Uttarakhand

• Strengths:
  Uttarakhand boasts a formidable batting lineup led by Jagadeesha Suchith, who has been in excellent form in recent domestic matches. Avneesh Sudha and Kunal Chandela provide stability at the top and middle order. The side also has a potent bowling attack with Akash Madhwal in death overs.

• Key Players to Watch:

  • Jagadeesha Suchith – A match-winner with the bat and a consistent performer.
  • Avneesh Sudha – A reliable top-order batter.
  • Akash Madhwal – A death-overs specialist with the ability to swing the momentum.
  • Kunal Chandela – Provides a steady hand in the middle.

• Tactical Considerations:
  Uttarakhand will aim to post a formidable total and then rely on their bowlers to defend it. With the pitch likely aiding batters, the side will need to capitalize early and maintain pressure in the middle overs to restrict the opposition.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

• The pitch is expected to be batting-friendly, with a dry surface favoring seam and pace bowlers.
• There is a slight chance of pace bowlers having an edge in the early and middle overs, especially if the ball swings or seams.
• The death overs could be crucial, and the ability to execute tight lines and yorkers will play a key role in the match outcome.

Match Prediction

• Predicted Scoreline:

  • Himachal Pradesh: 135–190
  • Uttarakhand: 120–185

• Winning Team Prediction:
  Uttarakhand are the strong favorites to win this match, with a predicted odds of 1.5 versus Himachal Pradesh's 2.4. Their current form, depth in batting, and experience in high-pressure situations give them an edge.

• Fantasy Cricket Tips:

  • Must-Have Picks: Jagadeesha Suchith (Uttarakhand), Vaibhav Arora (Himachal Pradesh), Akash Madhwal (Uttarakhand).
  • Risky Picks: Mridul Surroch (Himachal Pradesh), Harshit Paliwal (Uttarakhand) – could deliver big in the right conditions.

Injuries & Availability

• There are no reported injuries for either team at the moment, allowing both squads to field their full strength.

Live Streaming & Viewing Options

• Live Streaming: The match will be available on FanCode, Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, and Possible11.com.
• Live Updates & Highlights: Available on the same platforms, with expert commentary and match analysis.

Conclusion

The Himachal Pradesh vs Uttarakhand clash on December 24 is set to be a competitive and exciting encounter. While Uttarakhand come into the match as the stronger side, Himachal will be looking to make a statement with a disciplined and calculated performance. With a batting-friendly pitch on offer, the battle between the top and middle orders could be the defining factor in this match.

Final Verdict:
Uttarakhand to win by a narrow margin, with Jagadeesha Suchith and Akash Madhwal playing pivotal roles.
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