Assam vs Bengal Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026 Match Preview – January 3, 03:30 GMT

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season is heating up, and one of the most anticipated fixtures on the horizon is the clash between Assam and Bengal. Scheduled to take place on January 3, 2026, at 03:30 GMT, this encounter promises to be a thrilling contest between two strong domestic teams with contrasting styles and deep talent pools.

Match Details

• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 (Elite Group)
• Teams: Assam vs Bengal
• Date: January 3, 2026
• Time: 03:30 GMT / 08:30 IST
• Venue: TBC (Details to be confirmed)

Team Analysis

Assam: A Balanced Unit with Star Power

Assam enters this match with a well-rounded squad led by the experienced Sibsankar Roy, who has consistently delivered with both bat and ball in domestic limited-overs cricket. The team's batting line-up is anchored by Akash Sengupta, a reliable opener who can anchor the innings, and Bhargav Lahkar, who has shown explosive potential in the middle overs.

The bowling department is spearheaded by Angshuman Malakar, a wicket-taking machine in the shorter formats, and Nihar Deka, who can swing the ball and trouble the opposition in the death overs. The depth in the bowling and batting suggests that Assam will be a tough opponent, especially if they can capitalize on early wickets.

Bengal: A High-Octane Side with International Experience

Bengal, captained by the dynamic all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed, brings a blend of youth and experience to the table. Ahmed, with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, is a key player to watch. Alongside him, Abhimanyu Easwaran is expected to play the role of a run-scorer, having shown great form in recent domestic tournaments.

The bowling attack is arguably the strongest in the squad, with Mohammed Shami leading the pace charge. Shami’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and death overs makes him a vital asset. Sayan Ghosh and Sudip Gharami provide further depth and variation, making Bengal a formidable side on the back of their pace firepower.

Pitch & Weather Outlook

While the exact venue remains undisclosed, the pitch is expected to offer assistance to both batters and bowlers in the early and middle overs, with a slight edge to the fast bowlers in the death overs. With the weather likely to remain dry and conducive for cricket, we can expect a competitive contest with a high-scoring potential.

Fantasy Cricket Insights (Dream11 Tips)

For fantasy players, this match offers a rich pool of talent to choose from. Key players to consider for your Dream11 team include:

• Captain: Sibsankar Roy (Assam)
• Vice-Captain: Shahbaz Ahmed (Bengal)
• Must-Have Batters: Akash Sengupta (Assam), Abhimanyu Easwaran (Bengal)
• Must-Have Bowlers: Mohammed Shami (Bengal), Angshuman Malakar (Assam)

Given the expected scoring conditions, selecting a top-order batter and a death-over bowler could yield high rewards. Both teams have a strong middle and lower order, making the game a potential high-scoring affair.

Injuries & Availability

As of now, there are no reported injuries for either team. All key players are expected to be fit and available for selection, which bodes well for both sides to field their strongest line-ups.

Live Streaming & Scores

Fans can catch all the action live through the following platforms:

• Cricbuzz
• ESPNcricinfo
• Possible11

These platforms will also provide live scores, commentary, and updates throughout the match.

Match Prediction

While both teams have their strengths, Assam is slightly favored to win this encounter. Their balanced approach and the experience of players like Sibsankar Roy and Angshuman Malakar could prove decisive. However, Bengal's pace attack and Shahbaz Ahmed's all-round abilities will certainly keep them in the contest.

Conclusion

The Assam vs Bengal clash in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 is shaping up to be a compelling encounter. With both teams boasting strong squads and individual talent, the match is expected to be a closely contested affair. Cricket fans and fantasy players alike will be eagerly awaiting this showdown.

Stay tuned for live updates and match coverage!
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