Match Preview: Delhi vs Services – Vijay Hazare Trophy, 3rd January 2026

Date: Saturday, 3rd January 2026
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Time: 03:30 GMT
Format: 50-Over Match
Series: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26

Match Overview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 continues with an intriguing encounter between Delhi and Services at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This high-stakes 50-over fixture promises a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents from both sides, with Delhi being the more fancied outfit based on form and squad strength.

The pitch at Bengaluru is expected to be a medium-paced surface, offering assistance to seamers early on and becoming more conducive to spin as the game progresses. Overcast conditions could further aid the pace bowlers, making the toss a crucial factor in shaping the game's direction.

Team Analysis

Delhi – The Favorites

Delhi boasts a balanced squad with a strong top order and a reliable bowling unit. The team has a history of performing well in domestic limited-overs cricket, and their experience in high-pressure situations gives them an edge.

Key Players:

• Virat Kohli – The run-machine remains a key figure, and his ability to anchor the innings is invaluable.
• Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper) – Known for his aggressive stroke play, Pant can change the game with a quickfire knock.
• Nitish Rana – A consistent performer, Rana is expected to lead the scoring charge.
• Priyansh Arya – A rising star, Arya is a must-pick for fantasy teams due to his high point potential.

Delhi's bowling line-up features Ishant Sharma, a seasoned pacer who can exploit the overcast conditions effectively in the death overs.

Services – The Underdogs with Spin Strength

Services, while not as strong on paper, have the advantage of a potent spin attack. They can trouble the Delhi batters in the middle and death overs, especially if the pitch slows down as the game progresses.

Key Players:

• Rajat Paliwal – A versatile all-rounder with a solid technique and useful left-arm spin.
• Ravi Chauhan – A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Chauhan is a reliable middle-order option.
• Pulkit Narang – A right-hand batsman who can play crucial knocks under pressure.

Services' spin department, led by Shivam Kumar, will be a key factor in their chances of pulling off an upset.

Captain and Vice-Captain Suggestions for Fantasy Teams

• Captain (C): Nitish Rana (Delhi)
• Vice-Captain (VC): Priyansh Arya (Delhi)

Both players are expected to deliver in all departments and are high-point picks for fantasy cricket.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

• Weather: Overcast with a possibility of dew in the second innings.
• Pitch: Medium-paced with a fair amount of bounce. Spinners may get assistance in the later stages.

Head-to-Head and Toss Prediction

Delhi has the upper hand in this encounter, especially with a better batting depth and a more experienced bowling line-up. However, Services could make it interesting if they win the toss and bowl first under overcast skies.

Toss Prediction: Delhi is expected to win the toss and choose to bat first to capitalize on their strong top order.

Winner Prediction

Predicted Winner: Delhi
Delhi’s superior batting and bowling strength make them the clear favorites in this match. Services will need to play above their level, especially with the bat, to pull off an upset.

Live Streaming and Coverage

• Live Scores & Updates: Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo
• Fantasy Tips & Player Points: Possible11

Disclaimer

This preview is based on available information, team form, and historical data. Fantasy selections should be tailored to individual strategies and match conditions. Always consider the latest updates and news before finalizing your team.

Stay tuned for the live updates and match report as Delhi take on Services in what promises to be an exciting Vijay Hazare Trophy encounter!
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