Bengal vs Jammu and Kashmir Match Preview: Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite 2025-26

Date: 31st December 2025
Time: 03:30 GMT / 08:30 IST
Venue: [To be Confirmed]
Format: 50-over
Series: Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite 2025-26

Match Preview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite 2025-26 will witness an intriguing clash between Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir on 31st December 2025. The match, set to begin at 03:30 GMT, promises to be a thrilling encounter as both sides aim to make a strong start in the competition.

Bengal, a historically strong team in domestic cricket, will be led by their experienced captain and opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is known for his consistency and ability to anchor the innings. The likes of Karan Lal and Shahbaz Ahmed provide depth in the batting line-up, while Mohammed Shami and Sudip Gharami will be the key wicket-takers for the Red and Gold.

On the other hand, Jammu and Kashmir will be looking to make their mark with a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Shubham Khajuria, Qamran Iqbal, and Murugan Ashwin are expected to lead the charge with the bat, while Abdul Samad and Yudhvir Singh Charak will be crucial in the bowling department. The spin department, led by Murugan Ashwin, could be a deciding factor, especially in the middle overs.

Key Players to Watch

Bengal:

• Abhimanyu Easwaran – The experienced opener and captain, crucial for setting the tone.
• Mohammed Shami – The red-hot pacer with the ability to swing the ball both ways.
• Shahbaz Ahmed – A versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
• Sudip Gharami – A consistent performer with the ball in the death overs.

Jammu and Kashmir:

• Murugan Ashwin – A seasoned spinner with match-winning potential.
• Shubham Khajuria – A dynamic opener with the ability to score quickly.
• Abdul Samad – A reliable seamer and death-overs specialist.
• Qamran Iqbal – A key middle-order batsman and part-time off-spinner.

Pitch & Tactical Analysis

The pitch is expected to favor the pacers initially, with a bit of assistance in the early overs. However, as the game progresses, it may become easier for the batters to score. This makes the death overs a crucial phase of the game, where the ability to swing the ball or bowl tight lines can turn the tide.

Both teams have strong bowling line-ups, and the match will likely hinge on how well the openers perform and whether the spinners can control the middle overs. Captaincy decisions and the ability to rotate the strike effectively will be key in this contest.

Dream11 & Fantasy Insights

Must-Picks (Small League):

• Bengal: Sayan Ghosh (672 points), Sudip Gharami (512 points)
• Jammu and Kashmir: Abdul Samad (375 points), Murugan Ashwin (315 points)

Risky Picks (Grand League):

• Bengal: Anustup Majumdar, Vishal Sunil Bhati
• Jammu and Kashmir: Yawer Hassan, Lone Nasir Muzaffar

Death Over Bowlers:

• Bengal: Sayan Ghosh, Mohammed Shami
• Jammu and Kashmir: Abdul Samad, Shubham Khajuria

Captaincy Suggestions

• Best Captain (C): Abhimanyu Easwaran (Consistency and leadership)
• Best Vice-Captain (VC): Shahbaz Ahmed (350 points, CR: 9)

Injuries & Team News

As of now, there are no reported injuries for either team. Both squads are expected to field full strength, which bodes well for an exciting contest.

How to Watch & Follow

• Live Scores: Possible11.com
• Live App: Download the Possible11 app for real-time updates and fantasy tips.

Final Verdict

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having the firepower to win. Bengal’s experience and depth could give them an edge, but Jammu and Kashmir’s balanced squad and spin options make them a dangerous opponent. The battle between the pacers and spinners, along with the form of the openers, will be key to predicting the outcome.

Prediction: A competitive match, with Bengal having a slight advantage on paper.
“`