Tamil Nadu vs Baroda – Ranji Trophy Elite 2025-26 Match Preview (29 January 2026)

Match Details

• Teams: Tamil Nadu (TN) vs Baroda (BRD)
• Date & Time: 29 January 2026, 04:00 GMT / 09:30 IST
• Venue: Sardar Patel Stadium
• Tournament: Ranji Trophy Elite 2025-26
• Broadcast: Star Sports Network

Match Outlook

The upcoming clash between Tamil Nadu and Baroda promises to be an exciting encounter in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2025-26 season. With both teams vying for a strong position in the competition, the match is expected to be a high-scoring affair, thanks to the pitch and weather conditions at the Sardar Patel Stadium, which is known to favor batsmen.

Baroda, coming into the match with a three-game winning streak in the current season, are the favorites. Their consistent performance and strong batting lineup, complemented by their all-round depth, give them a clear edge. However, Tamil Nadu will be looking to put up a fight, especially with key players like Baba Indrajith and Mohamed Ali in the mix.

Head-to-Head History

• Baroda: 11 wins, 4 losses, 1 tie
• Tamil Nadu: 10 wins, 5 losses, 2 ties

Baroda holds a slight advantage in the historical record, and with their current form, they are expected to continue that trend in this match.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

• Pitch: The Sardar Patel Stadium pitch is expected to be batting-friendly, with the potential for high-scoring games. The surface is likely to offer good carry and bounce, but the pace could increase slightly in the later stages.
• Weather: The weather forecast is clear, with no chance of rain, which should allow for an uninterrupted contest.

Key Players to Watch

Baroda

• Krunal Pandya (All-rounder & Captain): A match-winner with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. His leadership and all-round skills make him a vital asset.
• Parth Kohli (Batsman): A consistent performer in domestic cricket, Kohli is expected to anchor the innings.
• Atit Sheth (Batsman): Has been in excellent form and can accelerate the innings if needed.
• Raj Limbani (Bowler): A death-over specialist who can swing the momentum in the final overs.
• Nitya Pandya (Batsman): A rising talent with a solid technique, he is crucial for the middle order.

Tamil Nadu

• Gurjapneet Singh (Pacer): A key bowler who can exploit any movement on offer.
• Baba Indrajith (All-rounder): A reliable performer with a good record in crucial matches.
• Mohamed Ali (Batsman): A left-hander with a strong technique, he can play a pivotal role in the middle order.
• Sai Sudharsan (Batsman): Known for his aggressive strokeplay, he can change the game with a big score.
• G Ajitesh (Batsman): A solid opening batter who can lay a strong foundation.

Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Suggestions

• Captaincy (Small League): Krunal Pandya (Baroda) – His all-round impact and captaincy make him a safe and high-reward pick.
• Vice-Captaincy (Small League): Parth Kohli (Baroda) – A consistent performer in the middle order.
• Captaincy (Grand League): Atit Sheth (Baroda) – High-scoring potential in favorable conditions.
• Vice-Captaincy (Grand League): Gurjapneet Singh (Tamil Nadu) – A key death-over bowler with match-winning potential.

Fantasy Team Composition (Dream11)

• Batsmen: 4 (Krunal Pandya, Parth Kohli, Atit Sheth, Sai Sudharsan)
• All-rounders: 2 (Krunal Pandya, Baba Indrajith)
• Bowlers: 3 (Gurjapneet Singh, Raj Limbani, G Ajitesh)
• Wicket-keeper: Optional (if required by format)

Must-Picks:

• Krunal Pandya (Baroda)
• Parth Kohli (Baroda)
• Gurjapneet Singh (Tamil Nadu)

Risky Picks:

• Atit Sheth (Baroda)
• Baba Indrajith (Tamil Nadu)
• Sai Sudharsan (Tamil Nadu)

Injury Updates

As of now, there are no reported injuries affecting either side. Both teams are expected to field their strongest squads.

Final Verdict

Baroda come into this match with a strong edge, backed by their current form and superior all-round depth. The pitch at Sardar Patel Stadium is likely to favor batting, which suits Baroda’s aggressive approach. However, Tamil Nadu, with their key performers and a solid batting line-up, will aim to put up a strong fight.

Fantasy players should prioritize Baroda’s key players, especially Krunal Pandya and Parth Kohli, while keeping an eye on Tamil Nadu’s death-over bowlers like Gurjapneet Singh.

Live Scores and Updates

• Live Score Streaming: Possible11.com or through the Possible11 app
• Broadcast: Star Sports Network

Tamil Nadu vs Baroda promises to be a thrilling encounter, and fans and fantasy players alike can look forward to a high-scoring, competitive match on 29 January 2026.
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