Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: Karnataka vs Kerala Match Preview

December 26, 2025 | 03:30 GMT | Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground, Ahmedabad

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 enters a crucial phase, one of the intriguing fixtures on December 26 is the Group A clash between Karnataka and Kerala at the Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground in Ahmedabad. The match promises to be a compelling encounter between two teams with contrasting styles and ambitions.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Karnataka – The Consistent Contenders

Karnataka, one of the most consistent performers in domestic limited-overs cricket, has a strong squad with experience at both the state and national levels. With players like K L Rahul, Manish Pandey, and R Vinay Kumar, the team has the firepower to trouble any opposition. Their bowling attack, led by Vinay Kumar and R Ashwin (if available), is equally potent, making them a balanced side.

In recent Vijay Hazare Trophy campaigns, Karnataka has often been in the mix for the title, and their ability to chase down tight totals and defend modest scores makes them a dangerous proposition in Ahmedabad’s high-scoring conditions.

Kerala – The Rising Force

Kerala, while historically not as dominant as Karnataka, has shown signs of improvement in recent seasons. The team boasts of exciting young talent, including Sachin Baby and Abhimanyu Raj, who have been in good form with the bat. Their spin-heavy attack, led by Niranjan Reddy, could prove effective on slower pitches.

However, Kerala has struggled in high-pressure situations, often failing to convert good starts into match-winning performances. This match could be a litmus test for their progress in the competition.

Key Match-ups to Watch

• K L Rahul vs Kerala's bowlers: Rahul is a proven match-winner and could be the difference-maker for Karnataka. If he gets starts, the team is likely to find it easier to post or chase big totals.
• Vinay Kumar vs Sachin Baby: Vinay’s ability to swing the new ball and pick up wickets in the powerplay could be key in restricting Kerala’s explosive openers.
• Kerala’s spinners vs Karnataka’s lower order: If the pitch offers assistance to spin, Kerala could exploit it against Karnataka’s middle and lower order, which has at times looked shaky.

Venue Insights – Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground

The Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground is known for producing high-scoring matches, with a good balance between batting and bowling conditions. Teams batting first usually look to post over 300, while chasing teams can expect to have a fair shot at pulling off big totals.

Prediction and Outlook

This is a must-win game for both teams if they are to make an impact in the group stage. Karnataka, with their experience and balanced squad, are slight favorites. However, Kerala’s hunger to prove themselves and their ability to play aggressive cricket could make for a thrilling contest.

Prediction: Karnataka by 15-20 runs, but the match is expected to be a close and exciting affair.

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as the match approaches.
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