Manipur vs Nagaland Match Preview – Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025/26

Match Details

• Teams: Manipur vs Nagaland
• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025/26
• Date & Time: Wednesday, 24th December 2025, 03:30 AM GMT (09:00 AM IST)
• Venue: Usha Martin Ground, Ranchi, India
• Format: 50 Overs
• Group: Plate Group

Pitch and Weather Report

• Pitch Report: The Usha Martin Ground is expected to offer a neutral surface, likely assisting the pacers in the early overs. Spin could come into play in the later stages if the game progresses.
• Weather Forecast: The day is expected to be clear with a temperature of around 20°C, 38% humidity, and a wind speed of 13.1 km/h. No precipitation is expected, ensuring a full contest.

Team Updates

Manipur Possible Playing XI

1. Johnson Singh
2. Al Bashid Muhammed
3. Ulenyai Khwairakm (WK)
4. Homendro Meitei
5. Ayekpam Rakesh (WK)
6. Pheiroijam Singh
7. Kangabam Priyojit Singh
8. Khangembam Santosh
9. L Kishan Singha
10. Bishworjit Konthoujam (C)
11. Ajay Lamabam

Nagaland Possible Playing XI

1. Dega Nischal
2. Ronit More
3. Rongsen Jonathan (C)
4. Imliwati Lemtur
5. Chetan Bist (WK)
6. Sedezhalie Rupero
7. Nzanthung Mozhui
8. Tahmeed Rahman
9. Nagaho Chishi
10. Joshua Ozukum
11. Saurav Kumar / Hem Chetri / Dip Borah

Key Players to Watch

Manipur

• Homendro Meitei – A key middle-order batsman with consistent performances in domestic cricket.
• Pheiroijam Singh – Known for his aggressive batting and ability to accelerate the innings.
• Kangabam Priyojit Singh – A wicket-taking all-rounder with a solid record in limited-overs cricket.

Nagaland

• Imliwati Lemtur – A seasoned campaigner with a high strike rate and match-winning capabilities.
• Nagaho Chishi – A reliable middle-order batsman and useful off-spinner.
• Joshua Ozukum – A power-hitter with explosive stroke play, ideal for the death overs.

Match Analysis and Prediction

The Plate Group of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 sets the stage for a competitive encounter between Manipur and Nagaland. Both teams have been consistent performers in domestic cricket and will be eager to make a strong start to their campaign.

Nagaland, with a balanced squad featuring experienced players like Joshua Ozukum and Imliwati Lemtur, looks to be the stronger side on paper. Their depth in batting and bowling, especially with Tahmeed Rahman providing all-round support, could prove decisive.

Manipur, however, should not be underestimated. Their top-order, led by Homendro Meitei and Pheiroijam Singh, can post competitive totals, while their spin options add versatility in the middle overs.

With a neutral pitch and clear skies, the toss might play a pivotal role. Batting first could allow teams to exploit the early pace, while chasing might offer better control over the game's momentum.

Prediction: Nagaland are slight favorites to win this encounter, but Manipur’s home advantage could make the match a close contest.

Captain and Vice-Captain Choices for Fantasy Teams

• Captain: Joshua Ozukum (Nagaland) – High impact potential with the bat.
• Vice-Captain: Homendro Meitei (Manipur) – Strong middle-order performer.
• Other Key Picks:
  • Rongsen Jonathan (Nagaland) – Captaincy and match-winning ability.
  • Kangabam Priyojit Singh (Manipur) – All-round threat.
  • Tahmeed Rahman (Nagaland) – Useful with both bat and ball.

Injury Updates

• No injuries reported for either team.

Live Streaming and Coverage

• Live Score: Available on Possible11.com and the Possible11 app.
• Broadcast: Likely to be covered live by domestic cricket platforms such as ESPN Cricinfo and local regional channels.

Conclusion

The Manipur vs Nagaland clash promises to be an exciting start to the Plate Group in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26. With a balanced squad and a neutral pitch, the match could go either way. Fantasy players and cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat as both teams look to make a strong impression in the tournament opener.

Final Prediction: Nagaland to win by 10-15 runs.
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