Maharashtra vs Sikkim Match Preview – 2025-12-26, 03:30 GMT

Match Details

• Date: 2025-12-26
• Time: 03:30 GMT / 08:30 IST
• Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad
• Format: T20
• Series: Domestic T20 Competition

Team Analysis

Maharashtra (MAH)

Maharashtra enters this match with a well-balanced and experienced squad. The team is led by a strong batting lineup that includes consistent performers like Ankit Bawne and Arshin Kulkarni, who have shown their mettle in high-pressure situations. Bawne, with a Consistency Rating (CR) of 9 and 190 points, is a reliable top-order player. Kulkarni, although with a lower CR of 5.5, brings in a wealth of experience and has been a consistent run-scorer in recent seasons.

The middle order is bolstered by Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rahul Tripathi, both of whom are capable of accelerating the innings when required. Jalaj Saxena is expected to perform well in the top order, making him a key player to watch.

The wicketkeeping duties are handled effectively by Asish Thapa, who has been a solid performer behind the stumps and also contributes with the bat.

Sikkim (SIK)

Sikkim, though a relatively smaller team in the domestic cricket scene, has been making strides in recent years. Their key players include Gurinder Singh, who has been in excellent form with a CR of 8.5 and an impressive 676 points. Singh is a top-order anchor and is expected to play a pivotal role in Sikkim's batting lineup.

Lee Yong Lepcha is another standout performer, with a CR of 8.5 and 639 points. His ability to score quickly in the powerplay and middle overs could be a game-changer. Palzor Tamang and Nilesh Lamichaney are also key contributors, with the latter excelling in the death overs.

Sikkim's bowling attack is led by Bhim Luitel, a consistent death-over bowler who can trouble even the best batters. His ability to pick up crucial wickets in the final overs makes him a vital asset.

Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Recommendations

Maharashtra (MAH)

• Captain: Ankit Bawne (CR 9) or Arshin Kulkarni (CR 5.5)
• Vice-Captain: Amit Rajera or Ankur Malik

Sikkim (SIK)

• Captain: Gurinder Singh (CR 8.5)
• Vice-Captain: Ankur Malik or Gurinder Singh

Must-Picks for Fantasy Teams

Small League

• Maharashtra: Jalaj Saxena (629 points), Rajneesh Gurbani (505 points)
• Sikkim: Gurinder Singh (676 points), Lee Yong Lepcha (639 points)

Grand League Risky Picks

• Maharashtra: Ruturaj Gaikwad (18 points), Rahul Tripathi (20 points)
• Sikkim: Palzor Tamang (73 points), Nilesh Lamichaney (98 points)

Death Over Bowlers to Watch

• Bhim Luitel (Sikkim): A reliable death-over specialist with the ability to deliver under pressure.

Injury Updates

As of now, there are no injury updates reported for either team. Both sides are expected to field their strongest lineups.

Match Prediction

While Sikkim has been improving and has a few high-performing players, Maharashtra is favored to win this match due to their balanced squad and experienced batting lineup. However, the game could be competitive if Sikkim's key players, especially Gurinder Singh and Lee Yong Lepcha, deliver under pressure.

How to Watch

• Live Score & Commentary: Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo
• Fantasy Updates: Possible11.com

Conclusion

The Maharashtra vs Sikkim clash promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams having the potential to put up a strong performance. Fantasy players and fans alike are advised to keep an eye on the latest updates from the teams before finalizing their lineups. Stay tuned for more updates as the match approaches.
“`