Rajasthan vs Tamil Nadu Vijay Hazare Trophy Match Preview – January 3, 2026

Date: January 3, 2026
Time: 03:30 GMT
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground, Ahmedabad
Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy (Elite Group)
Teams: Rajasthan vs Tamil Nadu

Match Overview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 continues with an intriguing encounter between Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu on January 3, 2026. This 50-over clash promises to be a tight contest, with both sides eager to end their recent losing streaks and climb the league table. The match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground in Ahmedabad, a venue known for its balanced pitch that often rewards both bowlers and batsmen.

Team Form & Momentum

Rajasthan has been in a difficult run of form, having lost their last four matches in a row. However, with key players like Rahul Chahar, Deepak Hooda, and Manav Suthar in their ranks, they have the firepower to turn things around. A strong batting performance and disciplined bowling could help Rajasthan break their losing streak.

Tamil Nadu, on the other hand, also went through a four-match losing spell but managed to secure a crucial win in their last game, which gives them a slight edge in confidence. Players like Sai Kishore, Mohamed Ali, and Gurjapneet Singh will be vital for TN, especially with the ball in hand and in the death overs.

Key Players to Watch

Rajasthan

• Rahul Chahar: A reliable all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
• Deepak Hooda: A dynamic top-order batsman with the ability to accelerate the scoring.
• Manav Suthar: A wicketkeeper-batsman who can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed.
• Mahipal Lomror: A consistent spinner who can trouble the opposition in the middle overs.

Tamil Nadu

• Sai Kishore: A versatile left-arm spinner who is a match-winner in the middle overs.
• Mohamed Ali: A left-arm fast-medium bowler who has been effective in tight matches.
• Gurjapneet Singh: A crucial death-over bowler who has taken wickets in high-pressure situations.
• Baba Indrajith: A reliable top-order batsman and occasional off-spinner.

Pitch & Weather

The pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium B is expected to be well-balanced, offering assistance to both pace and spin. The first 10-15 overs may be slightly easier for the batsmen, but the middle and death overs are likely to favor the bowlers. The weather forecast suggests clear skies with no threat of rain, allowing for a full contest.

Tactical Insights

• Rajasthan will need to capitalize on the initial overs and build a strong platform. With a balanced squad, they can push for a competitive total or chase effectively.
• Tamil Nadu will look to exploit the middle overs with their spinners and fast bowlers. Their recent win could provide the psychological boost needed to outplay Rajasthan.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

• Captaincy Pick: Rahul Chahar (Rajasthan) or Sai Kishore (Tamil Nadu)
• Vice-Captain Pick: Deepak Hooda (Rajasthan) or Gurjapneet Singh (Tamil Nadu)
• Top Wicket-Takers: Mohamed Ali (Tamil Nadu), Rahul Chahar (Rajasthan)
• Top Run-Scorers: Deepak Hooda (Rajasthan), Baba Indrajith (Tamil Nadu)

Live Streaming & Score Updates

Fans can follow the live action and score updates on popular platforms like:

• Cricbuzz
• ESPNcricinfo
• Possible11
• Dream11 Live

Conclusion

This Rajasthan vs Tamil Nadu clash will be a fascinating test of skill and character. Rajasthan will look to break their losing streak and bounce back with a strong performance, while Tamil Nadu will aim to consolidate their recent win and continue their upward trajectory in the tournament.

Who will come out on top? Stay tuned for a thrilling encounter in Ahmedabad!

Match Prediction: A closely contested match, with Tamil Nadu having a slight edge due to their recent form and experience in tight matches.
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