Assam vs Uttar Pradesh Match Preview – Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26

Date: December 31, 2025 (3:30 PM GMT / 9:00 PM IST)
Venue: [TBD]

Match Overview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season is set to witness a compelling clash between Assam and Uttar Pradesh on December 31, 2025. The match is scheduled to start at 3:30 PM GMT, with Assam entering the game as the slight favorites, based on recent form and player availability. This encounter promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with strong batting lineups and competitive bowling units.

Key Players to Watch

Assam (ASM)

• Akash Sengupta – The experienced all-rounder is expected to lead the charge with both bat and ball.
• Bhargav Lahkar – A consistent performer with the bat, especially in the middle overs.
• Nihar Deka – A rising star with the potential to deliver match-winning performances.
• Sibsankar Roy – A reliable top-order batter with a good strike rate.
• Sarupam Purkayastha – A key contributor with the bat and a useful off-spinner.

Uttar Pradesh (UP)

• Sameer Rizvi – A dynamic opener who can change the game's momentum early.
• Prashant Veer – A wicket-taking machine in the powerplay and death overs.
• Vaibhav Chaudhary – A top-order batter with a good record in limited-overs cricket.
• Abhishek Goswami – A left-arm seamer with the ability to pick up crucial wickets.
• Priyam Garg – A middle-order anchor who can convert starts into big scores.
• Aryan Juyal – A promising all-rounder with the potential to contribute in both departments.

Strategic Insights

Given the nature of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the match is likely to be a tight contest between batting and bowling. The pitch is expected to favor the pacers, making it crucial for teams to have a strong pace attack. The top order will play a pivotal role in setting the tone, while death-over bowlers could be the difference-makers in the final overs.

Assam, with a well-balanced squad and depth in both batting and bowling, is expected to have the upper hand. However, Uttar Pradesh’s talent-laden lineup, especially in the all-round department, makes them a dangerous opponent.

Fantasy Cricket Insights

For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, this match offers a mix of must-picks and risky picks. Assam players like Sarupam Purkayastha and Sibsankar Roy are considered must-haves due to their consistency and potential for high impact. On the other hand, Zeeshan Ansari and Aryan Juyal from Uttar Pradesh are also strong choices, especially in the small leagues.

In the grand leagues, Saurab Dihingia and Rahul Singh Gahlaut from Assam and Aaditya Sharma and Siddarth Goud from Uttar Pradesh can be considered as high-risk, high-reward options.

Captaincy Suggestions

Based on recent form and match impact, the following players are recommended as captaincy picks:

• Prashant Veer (UP)
• Abhishek Goswami (UP)
• Priyam Garg (UP)
• Nihar Deka (ASM)
• Sibsankar Roy (ASM)

These players have shown the ability to deliver under pressure and are likely to have a significant impact in this match.

Injury Updates

As of now, there are no reported injuries or unavailability issues for either team. Both squads are expected to field their full-strength lineups.

Live Streaming and Updates

Fans can follow the match through various platforms:

• Live scores and updates: Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, and Possible11
• Live streaming: Available on the official BCCI website and mobile app.

Final Verdict

While Assam is the slight favorite, Uttar Pradesh has the talent to pull off an upset. The key will be how each team manages the powerplay and death overs. Fantasy players are advised to consider the form and match-up advantages when constructing their teams.

Disclaimer: The analysis provided here is based on available data and insights. It is intended to assist fantasy cricket enthusiasts in making informed decisions and should be used in conjunction with personal research and strategy.
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