Haryana vs Odisha – Vijay Hazare Trophy Match Preview – January 3, 2026

Date: January 3, 2026
Time: 03:30 GMT / 09:00 AM IST
Venue: To Be Confirmed (Group Stage Match – Ahmedabad, Jaipur, or Bangalore (Alur))
Format: 50-Over Domestic Match
Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 – Elite Group D

Match Overview

As the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 progresses into its crucial phase, Haryana (HAR) and Odisha (ODS) are set to clash in a high-stakes encounter on January 3, 2026. Both teams have been competitive in the group stage, with each having secured three wins and one loss in their early fixtures. This match could prove pivotal in determining their trajectory in the tournament, especially with the knockout stages just a few days away.

The pitch is expected to be conducive to batting, with good carry and bounce, which will favor teams with strong top-order batters. The death overs will be a key battleground, where accurate and aggressive bowling can tilt the game in favor of either side.

Team Insights

Haryana (HAR) – The Resilient Chasers

Haryana has shown a balanced performance so far, with consistent contributions from their batting and bowling departments. Their top order, led by Samant Jakhar and Nishant Sindhu, has been reliable, while middle-order batters like Parth Vats and Anshul Kamboj have provided crucial runs.

• Captaincy Options: Samant Jakhar is the likely skipper, offering leadership and a solid presence in the middle.
• Key Players to Watch:
  • Parth Vats – A versatile all-rounder with the ability to change the course of the game with both bat and ball.
  • Anshul Kamboj – A dependable middle-order batsman and off-spinner who can control the tempo.
  • Nishant Sindhu – A consistent performer who can anchor the innings.
  • Ajit Chahal – A spin threat in the middle overs.

Odisha (ODS) – The Aggressive Contenders

Odisha has been in excellent form, with a potent top order and a deep bowling attack. Their aggressive batting style, led by the likes of Govinda Poddar and Prayash K Singh, has helped them post competitive totals and chase down targets with flair.

• Captaincy Options: The team is likely led by a seasoned campaigner, with Swastik Samal and Prayash K Singh being strong contenders for leadership roles.
• Key Players to Watch:
  • Govinda Poddar – A dynamic opener with explosive strokeplay and wicketkeeping skills.
  • Prayash K Singh – A rising star with the potential to score big and take crucial wickets.
  • Badal Biswal – A versatile all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
  • Om T Munde – A reliable middle-order anchor with good temperament.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

Both teams have shown similar levels of performance in the current season, with three wins and one loss each in their opening four matches. The head-to-head record between Haryana and Odisha is relatively balanced, but recent form slightly favors Odisha, who have been more consistent in tight matches and have a stronger batting line-up.

The absence of injuries in both squads means that the full strength of each team will be on display, making this a must-watch clash for cricket enthusiasts.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

Although specific weather details are not available at the time of writing, the pitch is expected to be flat and batting-friendly, with good bounce and carry. This will favor teams with strong top-order batters and death-over bowlers.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

Must Picks for Small Leagues

• Haryana: Parth Vats (248 points), Anshul Kamboj (216 points)
• Odisha: Govinda Poddar (645 points), Prayash K Singh (636 points)

Risky Picks for Grand Leagues

• Haryana: Bhuwan Rohilla, Ashish Siwach
• Odisha: Soumya Ranjan Lenka, Sambit S Baral

Captaincy & Vice-Captaincy Suggestions

• Captain: Govinda Poddar (ODS)
• Vice-Captain: Parth Vats (HAR)

Match Prediction

While Haryana has the advantage of home conditions (depending on the venue), Odisha is the stronger side in this encounter. Their balanced squad and aggressive style of play could give them the edge, especially if their top order fires and the bowlers maintain pressure in the death overs.

Prediction: Odisha to win the match with a margin of 10-15 runs.

How to Watch

The match will be live-streamed on popular cricket platforms such as Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, and Possible11. These platforms also offer real-time updates, scorecards, and fantasy cricket tips.

Final Thoughts

This Haryana vs Odisha clash promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. With both teams in good form and the pitch favoring batters, the match is expected to be a high-scoring affair. Fantasy players and cricket fans alike should keep a close eye on the performance of key players like Parth Vats, Govinda Poddar, and Prayash K Singh.

Stay tuned for the live action on January 3, 2026, at 03:30 GMT.

Note: This preview is based on the latest available data and analysis. Always verify the latest updates before making selections or predictions.