Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26: Himachal Pradesh vs Maharashtra Preview – December 29, 2025

Date & Time: December 29, 2025, 03:30 GMT
Venue: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
Format: 50-Over
Series: Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group

Match Overview

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur will host an intriguing Vijay Hazare Trophy encounter between Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra. This fixture promises to be a battle of contrasting styles and recent form, with both teams eager to make a strong statement in the early stages of the tournament.

Team Form and Strengths

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has built a reputation for resilience in domestic cricket, often excelling in tight conditions. The team has a balanced squad with a mix of experienced campaigners and promising young talents. Their batting order is anchored by the likes of Rajat Patidar, a player known for his aggressive strokeplay and ability to accelerate the scoring rate. The middle order is supported by the reliable Shubham Sharma and the versatile Rahul Sangwan, who can play both roles of anchor and finisher.

On the bowling front, Sandeep Sharma and Abhimanyu Rajput have been consistent performers, offering variations and control in both the middle and death overs. The wicketkeeping duo of Rajat Patidar and Rahul Sangwan also adds depth to the side.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra, a traditional powerhouse in Indian domestic cricket, boasts a squad with a rich history of producing national stars. The team is well-equipped with a blend of experience and youth. Saurabh Tiwary, the captain, is a seasoned campaigner and a match-winner with the bat, while Amit Mishra provides the experience and guile with the ball.

The batting lineup includes Siddhesh Lad, a left-handed opener with a solid technique, and Aditya Sarwate, who has shown glimpses of his potential in the limited-overs format. The bowling attack is spearheaded by Chetan Sakariya, a left-arm spinner who can be dangerous on turning tracks, and Shivam Dube, a versatile all-rounder who can change the momentum of the game with his aggressive batting and medium-pace bowling.

Venue Insights

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur typically offers a balanced pitch, with a firm surface that favors the bowlers in the early stages but becomes easier to score on as the game progresses. The outfield is well-maintained, and the playing conditions are generally favorable for batters, especially in the second innings.

Head-to-Head History

In recent encounters, Maharashtra has held the upper hand in their meetings with Himachal Pradesh, particularly on pitches that favor spin. However, Himachal has shown improvement in their white-ball cricket and has the potential to upset the more experienced side if they play to their strengths.

Key Matchups

• Rajat Patidar (HP) vs Chetan Sakariya (MAH): A battle between one of the most explosive batters in domestic cricket and a left-arm spinner with a knack for taking crucial wickets.
• Saurabh Tiwary (MAH) vs Sandeep Sharma (HP): Tiwary’s ability to anchor the innings and Sharma’s knack for picking up wickets will be pivotal in determining the match's outcome.

Prediction

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair. While Maharashtra has the experience and depth to handle high-pressure situations, Himachal Pradesh’s aggressive approach and recent form give them a fighting chance. The toss could play a significant role, with the team winning the toss likely to choose to bowl first and exploit the early conditions.

Prediction: Maharashtra to win by a narrow margin, but Himachal Pradesh could give a strong fight and make it a thriller.

Final Verdict

The Himachal Pradesh vs Maharashtra clash at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium will be a must-watch for cricket fans. With both teams having quality players and contrasting styles, this encounter promises to deliver a blend of skill, strategy, and excitement. The stage is set for a thrilling start to the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 season.
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