Jharkhand vs Puducherry – Vijay Hazare Trophy Match Preview (29th December 2025)

Match Details

• Teams: Jharkhand vs Puducherry
• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy
• Venue: KSCA Cricket Stadium, Bengaluru
• Date & Time: 29th December 2025 at 03:30 GMT / 09:00 IST

Match Overview

The upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy clash between Jharkhand and Puducherry promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams look to secure a crucial win in the tournament. This match will be played at the KSCA Cricket Stadium in Bengaluru, a venue known for its balanced pitch that typically offers opportunities for both batsmen and bowlers.

Despite Jharkhand’s victory in their only previous meeting, Puducherry is currently in better form and is expected to be the stronger side in this fixture. The match is set to be a high-scoring affair, with a par score likely around 180-200, given the nature of the pitch.

Key Players to Watch

Jharkhand

• Anukul Roy – The experienced opener, known for his consistency and ability to anchor the innings.
• Kumar Kushagra – A reliable middle-order batsman with a good strike rate.
• Ganga Sridhar Raju – A key all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball.
• Shikhar Mohan – A consistent performer with the ball, especially in the death overs.

Puducherry

• Ajay Rohera – A dynamic opener with explosive power, making him a top pick for fantasy teams.
• Vedant Bhardwaj – A key all-rounder who has been in fine form in recent matches.
• A Aravindaraj – A wicket-taking machine with a sharp line and length.
• Bhanu Anand – A reliable middle-order batsman and part-time off-spinner.

Team Form and Strategy

Puducherry, despite their limited past success against Jharkhand, is currently the more balanced side in this tournament. Their batting lineup is deep and explosive, with the ability to post big totals on this pitch. The bowling unit is also well-equipped to handle different phases of the game, especially with the likes of Aravindaraj and Bhardwaj in the side.

Jharkhand, on the other hand, will rely on their experience and the ability of Anukul Roy and Kushagra to stabilize the innings. Their spinners could be crucial if the match tightens in the middle overs.

Match Prediction

Given the current form and the balanced nature of the pitch, Puducherry is expected to come out on top in this encounter. Their aggressive batting and disciplined bowling should give them the edge, especially if their key players like Ajay Rohera and Vedant Bhardwaj deliver under pressure.

Prediction: Puducherry by 6-8 wickets

Fantasy Cricket Insights

• Captaincy Choice: Ajay Rohera (Puducherry)
• Vice-Captaincy Choice: Vedant Bhardwaj (Puduchandy)
• Must-Picks: Anukul Roy (Jharkhand), Kumar Kushagra (Jharkhand), A Aravindaraj (Puducherry), Bhanu Anand (Puducherry)

Fantasy players are advised to monitor the latest updates through platforms like Possible11, Cricbuzz, and ESPNcricinfo for real-time player fitness and performance updates.

Live Streaming and Broadcast

The match can be watched live on the following platforms:

• Cricbuzz – Live score updates and commentary.
• ESPNcricinfo – In-depth analysis and match coverage.
• Possible11 – Fantasy insights and live updates.

Final Thoughts

This Jharkhand vs Puducherry match is shaping up to be an exciting contest between two competitive teams. With the pitch favoring all-round play and both sides having quality in their lineups, fans can look forward to a thrilling game of cricket. Puducherry, however, appears to be the stronger side at the moment and is expected to take home the three crucial points.
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