Punjab vs Madhya Pradesh – Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Quarter Final 3 Preview

Date: January 13, 2026
Time: 03:30 GMT
Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground, Bengaluru

Match Overview

The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier 50-over domestic competition, reaches a crucial stage as Punjab faces off against Madhya Pradesh in the 3rd Quarter Final of the Elite Group. This encounter, set to take place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru, promises to be a high-stakes battle between two teams with contrasting but equally potent styles.

The match will be a key determinant of who advances to the next round, and both Punjab and Madhya Pradesh will be eager to showcase their credentials as serious contenders.

Team Insights

Punjab: The Run-Machine Mentality

Punjab, known for their explosive batting and aggressive approach, has been a consistent performer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Their top order has shown resilience, while the lower middle-order has often provided late fireworks. With players like Pathak, Bharat, and Kohli (if selected) in the mix, Punjab can post formidable totals.

Their bowling attack, led by the experienced Pandey and the ever-reliable Chahal, has been effective in tight situations. Punjab's ability to chase down high totals has been a hallmark of their recent performances, and they will look to exploit the conditions in Bengaluru, which typically favor batting.

Madhya Pradesh: The Balanced Threat

Madhya Pradesh, on the other hand, brings a well-rounded team with a strong emphasis on balance. Their batting line-up is anchored by seasoned campaigners, and their bowling unit is often the difference-maker in tight contests.

Players like Jadeja and Bishnoi have been instrumental in the field, while the likes of Pandey and Singh have added crucial runs in the middle overs. With a disciplined approach and a knack for winning low-scoring games, Madhya Pradesh has the potential to frustrate Punjab’s batters and make them chase under pressure.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru is generally a batting-friendly track, offering a true bounce and minimal assistance to spinners. With the weather expected to be clear and conducive for batting, both teams are likely to aim for a high total.

However, given the nature of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the toss could still be a pivotal moment. The team winning the toss and batting first may look to set a challenging target, while the chasing side could rely on their aggressive middle and lower order to close the game.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Punjab’s Batsmen vs. MP’s Bowlers: How will Punjab’s top order fare against Madhya Pradesh’s disciplined pace and spin attack?
• MP’s Spinners vs. Punjab’s Lower Order: Punjab’s lower-order batters, often their saviors, will need to be at their best to counter MP’s spin threat.
• Fielding Standards: Both teams have strong fielding units, and a single direct hit or sharp catch could tilt the game in either direction.

Prediction

This promises to be a tight and thrilling encounter. Punjab’s aggressive batting and chasing prowess could give them the edge, but Madhya Pradesh’s balanced approach and experience in pressure situations make them a dangerous opponent.

Prediction:
Punjab by 5-10 runs
But expect a nail-biting contest with the result hinging on the last few overs.

Live Scores & Updates

You can follow the live action and updates of the Punjab vs Madhya Pradesh match here.

Final Thoughts

The Punjab vs Madhya Pradesh clash is a must-watch for cricket fans. With both teams vying for a place in the next stage, the match is expected to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and determination. Whoever wins this quarter-final will not only advance in the tournament but will also send a strong message about their title credentials.

Get ready for a classic Vijay Hazare Trophy thriller!
Time to Play: 03:30 GMT on January 13, 2026.
“`