Cricket Match Preview: Haryana vs Saurashtra – Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26

Date: 26 December 2025
Time: 03:30 GMT / 08:30 IST
Venue: Rajkot (Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium)
Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26
Format: 50-over List A match
Group: Elite Group D

Match Overview

Haryana and Saurashtra are set to face off in an intriguing encounter of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. This match will be played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, a venue known for its spin-friendly conditions and unpredictable weather patterns. The clash is part of the group stage of Elite Group D, and both teams will be eager to secure a win to bolster their net run rate and improve their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

Team Form and Strength

Haryana

Haryana has been a consistent performer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in recent years. The team is known for its balanced squad, with a strong middle-order and a decent bowling attack. In the recent 2024-25 season, Haryana showcased resilience in both batting and bowling, particularly in tight chases and tight bowling spells. Key players such as Parth Vats, Anshul Kamboj, and Himanshu Rana have been instrumental in the team's success.

In their last match of the 2025-26 season, Haryana faced Odisha and managed a convincing win, with the bowlers chipping in with crucial wickets. Their ability to adapt to different conditions and chase down targets gives them an edge.

Saurashtra

Saurashtra, on the other hand, is a relatively new entrant to the top-tier Vijay Hazare Trophy but has made a strong impression with their aggressive brand of cricket. The team has a good mix of experienced campaigners and young talents, with players like Chirag Jani, Prerak Mankad, and Vishvaraj Jadeja leading the charge.

In their most recent match, Saurashtra defeated Delhi with a clinical performance, with both the batting and bowling departments firing on all cylinders. Their ability to post competitive totals and defend them effectively will be crucial in this match.

Key Players to Watch

Haryana

• Parth Vats – The right-handed opener is a consistent performer and has a knack for anchoring the innings.
• Anshul Kamboj – A versatile all-rounder, Kamboj is a key death bowler and can contribute with the bat in the lower order.
• Himanshu Rana – A top-order batsman who has scored crucial runs in tight chases.
• Bhuwan Rohilla – A left-arm spinner who can be dangerous on turning tracks.

Saurashtra

• Chirag Jani – A dynamic opener with a good strike rate, Jani is the anchor of the Saurashtra batting lineup.
• Prerak Mankad – A right-arm fast bowler with a good yorker and ability to swing the ball.
• Vishvaraj Jadeja – A middle-order batsman with a calm temperament and a good eye for scoring runs.
• Chetan Sakariya – A left-arm spinner who has been in good form in recent domestic matches.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

The match is scheduled to take place in Rajkot, where the weather is generally pleasant in December, with daytime temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C. However, the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium is known for its spin-friendly surface, which could play a significant role in the game. The pitch is likely to offer assistance to spinners in the second innings, especially if the match is delayed due to rain or dew.

Match Prediction

The match between Haryana and Saurashtra promises to be a closely contested affair. Haryana's experience in high-pressure situations and Saurashtra's aggressive approach could lead to a thrilling contest. Given the spin-friendly conditions at Rajkot, the toss could be a crucial factor. A win for either side would give them a solid start in Group D.

Prediction:

• Toss: Saurashtra to win the toss and opt to bat first.
• Result: Saurashtra to win the match by a narrow margin, with a total of around 280-290 and a successful chase by Haryana in the end.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

Must-Picks

• Haryana: Parth Vats, Anshul Kamboj
• Saurashtra: Chirag Jani, Prerak Mankad

Captain & Vice-Captain

• Captain: Chirag Jani (Saurashtra)
• Vice-Captain: Parth Vats (Haryana)

Risky Picks

• Haryana: Bhuwan Rohilla, Himanshu Rana
• Saurashtra: Vishvaraj Jadeja, Chetan Sakariya

Conclusion

The Haryana vs Saurashtra clash in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams having the potential to go all the way. The spin-friendly pitch in Rajkot could play a pivotal role in the match outcome. Fantasy players and cricket enthusiasts alike will have their eyes on this match for some high-quality cricket and thrilling performances.

Live Score & Updates:
For live scores and real-time updates, visit the Possible11 app or website.
Injury Updates: No major injury updates are reported for either team at this stage.

Final Word:
This match is a must-watch for cricket fans, as both Haryana and Saurashtra look to make a strong start in the group stage of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. The battle between the spinners and the batsmen could be the highlight of the day.