Himachal Pradesh vs Sikkim Match Preview – January 8, 2026

Match Date: January 8, 2026
Match Time: 03:30 GMT / 09:00 IST
Teams: Himachal Pradesh (HIM) vs Sikkim (SIK)
Venue: [To be confirmed]

Match Overview

The upcoming clash between Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim on January 8, 2026, promises to be an intriguing contest in the 2026 domestic cricket season. With both teams vying for crucial points, the match is expected to showcase some competitive performances from their respective lineups.

The match is scheduled to start at 03:30 GMT (09:00 IST), and fans can follow the live score updates through platforms like Possible11, Cricbuzz, and ESPNcricinfo.

Team Analysis & Player Insights

Himachal Pradesh (HIM)

Himachal Pradesh has a balanced squad with a good mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents. Key players to watch out for include:

• Ankit Kalsi – The experienced all-rounder is expected to lead the side and provide stability with both bat and ball.
• Innesh Mahajan – The wicketkeeper-batter brings consistency and is a reliable choice for the middle order.
• Pukhraj Mann – A versatile performer, Mann could be a key contributor with the bat and a valuable all-rounder.
• Vaibhav Arora – One of the standout bowlers for HIM, Arora has the ability to control the flow of the game, especially in the death overs.

Sikkim (SIK)

Sikkim is currently predicted to have a slight edge in this match, thanks to a well-rounded squad and potentially better form. Key names to monitor include:

• Gurinder Singh – A top-order batter with a solid technique, Singh is expected to anchor the innings.
• Lee Yong Lepcha – A consistent performer, Lepcha could be the difference-maker with the bat or in the field.
• C Kranthi Kumar – A reliable opener who can set the tone for the innings with his aggressive yet controlled approach.
• Amit Rajera – Provides depth with both bat and ball, and can be a surprise package in the middle overs.

Captaincy Suggestions

Based on the current form and match dynamics, the following players could be considered for captaincy and vice-captaincy roles:

• HIM Captain: Ankit Kalsi
• HIM Vice-Captain: Innesh Mahajan
• SIK Captain: Lee Yong Lepcha
• SIK Vice-Captain: Amit Rajera

Fantasy Cricket Tips

For fantasy leagues, the following players are recommended:

• Small Leagues:

  • HIM: Vaibhav Arora (644 points), Pukhraj Mann (427 points)
  • SIK: Gurinder Singh (676 points), Lee Yong Lepcha (639 points)

• Grand Leagues:

  • HIM: Mridul Surroch (risky), Vipin Sharma (risky)
  • SIK: Palzor Tamang (73 points), Nilesh Lamichaney (98 points)

• Bowling Picks:

  • HIM: Vaibhav Arora
  • SIK: Bhim Luitel

Injury & Availability

As of now, there are no reported injuries or unavailability issues from either side, which means both teams can field their strongest lineups.

Match Prediction

While Himachal Pradesh has the experience and depth to put up a strong fight, Sikkim is favored to edge out the competition in this encounter. Their balanced squad and the form of key players like Gurinder Singh and Lee Yong Lepcha give them a slight upper hand.

Final Thoughts

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having the potential to win. However, based on the current analysis and player form, Sikkim is the recommended side to back for fantasy and match outcome purposes.

Disclaimer:
All predictions and player picks are based on current form, historical data, and the author's analysis. Users are advised to make informed decisions based on their own research and match updates.
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