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

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 kicks off on December 24, and one of the early fixtures that promises to deliver intrigue is the encounter between Maharashtra and Punjab at the Anantam Ground in Jaipur. Scheduled to start at 03:30 GMT (09:00 AM IST), this 50-over clash will be a crucial opener for both teams as they look to set the tone for the tournament.

Match Details

• Teams: Maharashtra vs Punjab
• Venue: Anantam Ground, Jaipur
• Date: December 24, 2025
• Time: 03:30 GMT / 09:00 AM IST
• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 (Elite Division)

Team Form and Recent Performance

Maharashtra, a consistent performer in domestic cricket, will be eager to start the new season on a high. The team has a strong batting lineup and a reliable bowling unit, with experienced campaigners leading the charge. Their recent performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy have shown a mix of consistency and occasional inconsistency, but with the right preparation, they are expected to be a formidable side.

Punjab, captained by the evergreen Shubman Gill, is a team on the rise in domestic cricket. Gill's return to domestic duties this season has added a new dimension to Punjab's batting. The team has shown a strong ability to chase down targets and their aggressive brand of cricket makes them a dangerous opponent. Punjab will be looking to make a strong start in their campaign and build momentum early.

Key Players to Watch

• Shubman Gill (Punjab): The India opener brings a wealth of international experience and has been in excellent form in recent domestic outings. His calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings could be pivotal for Punjab.

• Rohit Sharma (Mumbai, not in this match): While not playing in this match, Rohit's return to domestic cricket is a talking point. His presence in the tournament adds star power and highlights the BCCI's efforts to blend youth with experience.

• Maharashtra’s Middle-Order: Expect key contributions from the middle-order batsmen, who will need to provide stability and push the score beyond 300. The team's spinners could also play a big role if the pitch is conducive to turn.

• Punjab's Death Bowlers: Punjab’s fast bowlers have shown the ability to pick up crucial wickets in the death overs. If they can contain Maharashtra’s tail, they could force a tight chase.

Pitch and Venue Insight

The Anantam Ground in Jaipur is a relatively neutral venue, with the pitch often offering even assistance to both batting and bowling sides. However, the early morning dew could assist the spinners in the second innings. The teams will need to strike a balance between aggressive batting and disciplined bowling to get the better of each other.

Prediction

This match is expected to be a close contest, with both sides capable of posting competitive totals. Punjab’s aggressive approach and Maharashtra’s balanced squad make it a tough call. However, with Shubman Gill in prime form, Punjab might edge out Maharashtra in a low-scoring affair. A total in the mid-250s could prove decisive.

Prediction: Punjab by 5-6 runs

How to Watch

The match will be live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar and WB Suite. Cricket fans can follow the action as the tournament gets underway with a high-stakes encounter between two strong domestic sides.

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis as the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 begins its quest to crown a new champion.
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