Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: Assam vs Jammu & Kashmir – Match Preview (26 December 2025, 03:30 GMT)

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 is in full swing, and one of the key fixtures in the early stages of the tournament will be the clash between Assam and Jammu & Kashmir at Rajkot. Scheduled for 26 December 2025 and starting at 03:30 GMT, this Elite Group B encounter promises to be a competitive and intriguing contest.

Match Details

• Teams: Assam vs Jammu & Kashmir
• Format: 50-over List A
• Venue: Rajkot
• Date: 26 December 2025
• Time (GMT): 03:30
• Group: Elite Group B

Team Form and Recent Performances

Assam

Assam comes into this match with a relatively balanced squad, boasting a good mix of experienced campaigners and promising young talent. The team has shown potential in recent seasons, particularly in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Their batting lineup is deep, with players like Anusree Biswas and Abhimanyu Easow Chand providing stability and firepower. The spin department is also a strong suit, which could be a big advantage on turning tracks.

In their previous encounter against Jammu & Kashmir in the 2025-26 season (on 27 December 2025), Assam will be looking to build on that performance and assert their dominance in the group.

Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket over the years and is always a tough nut to crack. Their 50-over setup is well-balanced, with a solid top-order and a capable middle-order that can chase down targets. The team has produced some standout performers in the tournament, and with a strong bowling attack led by pace and spin, they are always a threat.

Jammu & Kashmir will be aiming to secure a win in this high-stakes encounter to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stages. Their experience in tight one-day matches will be crucial in this fixture.

Head-to-Head

While the two teams have faced each other in past editions of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the 2025-26 meeting will be the first in this season. The outcome of this match could significantly influence the group standings, making it a pivotal game for both sides.

Venue Conditions

The Rajkot Stadium is known for its spin-friendly surface, which could favor the team with a strong spin department. With the match likely to be played on a green top early in the season, the toss could be a key factor. A good batting performance could lead to a formidable total, but the spinners will come into their own as the game progresses.

Key Players to Watch

• Assam: Anusree Biswas (Batsman), Abhimanyu Easow Chand (Batsman), and the spin department led by Santosh Ganguly.
• Jammu & Kashmir: Mohammed Shami (Bowler), Mohammad Irfan (Batsman), and Sahil Chaudhary (All-rounder).

Prediction

This match is expected to be a tight and closely contested affair. Assam's depth in batting and strength in spin could give them an edge, especially on a turning track. However, Jammu & Kashmir's experience and consistency in one-day cricket cannot be underestimated. A score in the mid- to high-200s could be a target to beat, and the result may well come down to the last few overs.

Prediction: A close match with a slight edge to Assam.

Conclusion

The Assam vs Jammu & Kashmir clash on 26 December 2025 is set to be a fascinating encounter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. With both teams vying for crucial points in Elite Group B, fans can expect a high-quality contest of skill, strategy, and determination. Cricket enthusiasts should not miss this exciting match from Rajkot.
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