Arunachal Pradesh vs Nagaland Match Preview | 03 January 2026

Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025-26

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate Group continues its thrilling run, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland are set to face off in what promises to be a closely contested match. The game will take place at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi, with the toss scheduled at 03:15 GMT (08:45 IST). Here's a comprehensive preview of the match.

Match Details

• Teams: Arunachal Pradesh vs Nagaland
• Venue: JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi
• Date: 03 January 2026
• Time: 03:15 GMT (08:45 IST)
• Format: 50-over One-Day
• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025-26

Pitch and Playing Conditions

The JSCA International Stadium Complex is known for its balanced pitch that offers assistance to both batters and bowlers. While the surface is generally true, it can favor pace bowlers in the middle and death overs, especially if the ball seamer. A score in the mid-to-high 230s could be considered a par total.

Team Analysis & Form

Arunachal Pradesh (AP)

• Position: 5th in Plate Group
• Record: 1 win, 3 losses
• Last Match: Lost to Meghalaya by 6 wickets
• Top Run Scorer: Techi Doria (219 runs)
• Top Wicket Taker: Techi Doria (9 wickets)

Arunachal Pradesh has struggled to find consistency in the tournament, with only one win in their four matches. The team needs a strong performance from their top order and death bowlers to bounce back. Key players like Techi Doria, Nabam Tempol, and Techi Neri will need to step up and deliver in crucial moments.

Nagaland (NAG)

• Position: 3rd in Plate Group
• Record: 2 wins, 2 losses
• Last Match: Lost to Bihar by 8 wickets
• Top Run Scorer: Dega Nischal (219 runs)
• Top Wicket Taker: Dip Borah (8 wickets)

Nagaland has shown more consistency compared to their opponents, with two wins under their belt. However, they have also lost two of their last four matches, including a recent defeat to Bihar. The team’s all-round performance, especially from Joshua Ozukum and Imliwati Lemtur, will be crucial for a positive result.

Head-to-Head

Historical encounters between Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have been closely contested, with both teams enjoying wins at different points. The outcome will likely depend on the form of key players and tactical decisions by the captains.

Fantasy Tips

Small League Must-Picks:

• Arunachal Pradesh:

  • Nabam Tempol (90 points)
  • Techi Neri (49 points)

• Nagaland:

  • Joshua Ozukum (602 points)
  • Imliwati Lemtur (125 points)

Grand League Risky Picks:

• Arunachal Pradesh:

  • Penjor Mangal (0 points)
  • Nabam Natung (0 points)

• Nagaland:

  • Yugandhar Singh (0 points)
  • Dip Borah (0 wickets in last match)

Key Players to Watch

• Nabam Tempol (Arunachal Pradesh) – Top-order batter with a high fantasy score.
• Joshua Ozukum (Nagaland) – All-rounder with explosive batting and sharp bowling.
• Imliwati Lemtur (Nagaland) – Wicket-taking machine with consistent performances.
• Techi Doria (Arunachal Pradesh) – Dual threat with both bat and ball.

Captaincy Suggestions

• Captain: Joshua Ozukum (Nagaland)
• Vice-Captain: Nabam Tempol (Arunachal Pradesh)

Both players are in good form and have the potential to deliver match-winning performances.

Match Prediction

Despite Arunachal Pradesh’s recent struggles, Nagaland comes into this match with a slightly better record and a balanced squad. The Nagaland side has shown more consistency, and if they can avoid early wickets, they should be in a strong position.

Prediction:

• Toss Winner: Arunachal Pradesh
• Match Winner: Nagaland
• Top Batter: Joshua Ozukum (NAG)
• Top Bowler: Imliwati Lemtur (NAG)
• Expected Score:
  • Nagaland: 235+
  • Arunachal Pradesh: 220+

Conclusion

This match is a must-watch for fans of domestic cricket. With a balanced pitch and two evenly matched sides, the result could go either way. Nagaland, however, appears to be the stronger side at the moment and is the slight favorite to win.

Live Streaming & Updates

• Live Streaming: Available on the official BCCI website and mobile app
• Live Score: BCCI website and cricket apps like Cricbuzz
• Commentary: Available in both English and Hindi

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis as the match unfolds.
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