MAN vs MEG Match Preview – Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025-26

Match Details

• Match: Manipur (MAN) vs Meghalaya (MEG)
• Format: 50 Overs
• Date: Saturday, 3rd January 2026
• Time: 03:15 AM GMT / 08:45 AM IST
• Venue: JSCA Oval Ground, Ranchi, India
• Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate 2025-26

Pitch and Weather Report

• Pitch: Neutral with a slight preference for pace bowlers.
• Weather: Clear skies expected with a temperature of around 20°C, 38% humidity, and a wind speed of 13.1 km/h.
• Visibility: Good at 10 km.

Team Form and Rankings

• Manipur (2nd in Plate Group): 3 wins and 1 loss in the Plate Group so far.

  • Top Run Scorer: Karnajit Yumnam (188 runs)
  • Top Wicket Taker: Pheiroijam Singh (11 wickets)
  • Recent Win: Beat Mizoram by 8 wickets.

• Meghalaya (4th in Plate Group): 2 wins and 2 losses.

  • Top Run Scorer: Kishan Lyngdoh (157 runs)
  • Top Wicket Taker: Akash Choudhary (15 wickets)
  • Recent Win: Defeated Arunachal Pradesh by 6 wickets.

Playing XIs

Manipur (MAN)

1. Karnajit Yumnam
2. Ulenyai Khwairakpam (WK)
3. Khangembam Santosh
4. L Kishan Singha
5. Al Bashid Muhammed
6. Bishworjit Konthoujam (C)
7. Langlonyamba MeitanKeishangbam
8. Johnson Singh
9. Pheiroijam Singh
10. Kangabam Priyojit Singh
11. Ayekpam Rakesh
12. Kishan Thokchom

Meghalaya (MEG)

1. Riboklang Hynniewta
2. Swarajeet Das
3. Larry Sangma
4. Akash Choudhary
5. Dippu Sangma (C)
6. Abhishek Kumar Singh
7. Kishan Lyngdoh
8. Jaskirat Singh
9. Arpit Bhatewara (WK)
10. Ram Gurung
11. Anish Charak
12. Arien Sangma

Key Players to Watch

• Langlonyamba MeitanKeishangbam (Manipur) – A consistent performer with both bat and ball, known for his aggressive stroke play and useful off-spin.
• Arpit Bhatewara (Meghalaya) – The wicketkeeper-batter has been in good form and could anchor the innings.
• Akash Choudhary (Meghalaya) – Meghalaya's main bowling threat, with the ability to take crucial wickets and break partnerships.
• Pheiroijam Singh (Manipur) – A key seam option who has delivered in tight moments.

Match Prediction

With the pitch favoring pace and the weather in good condition, the game could be a tight contest. Manipur, currently in second place, will look to capitalize on their form and home advantage. Meghalaya, on the other hand, will rely on their experienced batters and the fiery spell of Akash Choudhary to secure a win.

Prediction: A close match, with a slight edge to Meghalaya, especially if they can exploit the pace-friendly conditions effectively.

Fantasy Tips

• Must-Select:

  • Akash Choudhary (MEG) – High wicket potential.
  • Arpit Bhatewara (MEG) – Strong all-round performer.
  • Langlonyamba MeitanKeishangbam (MAN) – Key middle-order batsman and spinner.

• Pace Bowlers: Look for Pheiroijam Singh (MAN) and Jaskirat Singh (MEG) for match-changing spells.

Live Streaming & Broadcast

• Live Streaming: Sports18, Hotstar, and JioCinema.
• Commentary: Available on ESPN Cricinfo and local radio stations in Ranchi.

Conclusion

This match promises to be a thriller in the Plate Group of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. With both teams vying for a top finish, the battle between Manipur's aggressive approach and Meghalaya's balanced side will be a treat for cricket fans. Don’t miss the action as the Plate Group race reaches its climax.

Next Match: Bihar vs Mizoram at Usha Martin Ground, Ranchi.
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