Himachal Pradesh vs Jammu & Kashmir – Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Match Preview (29 January 2026)

Match Details:

• Teams: Himachal Pradesh (HIM) vs Jammu & Kashmir (JAM)
• Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
• Time: 04:00 GMT / 09:30 AM IST
• Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Himachal Pradesh
• Format: First-Class (Ranji Trophy 2025-26)

Match Overview

As the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season progresses, one of the most intriguing fixtures on the calendar is set to unfold at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Himachal Pradesh. The hosts, Himachal Pradesh, will look to end a recent run of poor form and secure a vital win on home soil, while Jammu & Kashmir, with a strong squad and a better head-to-head record, will aim to continue their consistent performance in the competition.

Head-to-Head Record

The two teams have met 16 times in the Ranji Trophy, with Jammu & Kashmir holding a slight advantage with 9 wins compared to Himachal Pradesh's 7. The remaining matches have ended in draws or were abandoned, making this a closely contested rivalry. With this in mind, Jammu & Kashmir are currently the slight favorites, with experts giving them a 62% chance of victory.

Team News & Key Players

Himachal Pradesh (HIM)

Himachal Pradesh will be eager to break their recent losing streak, which has been a concern for the team. Key players to watch include:

• Innesh Mahajan (Captain): A reliable leader with experience in high-pressure situations.
• Ankit Kalsi: A consistent performer with the bat and a useful medium-pacer.
• Pukhraj Mann: A rising star in the domestic circuit, known for his aggressive batting.
• Vaibhav Arora: The team’s most consistent performer, especially in the middle order.

Vaibhav Arora has been highlighted as a must-pick for fantasy cricket leagues due to his recent form and ability to deliver under pressure.

Jammu & Kashmir (JAM)

Jammu & Kashmir enter this match with a more balanced approach and a squad that has shown resilience in the last few matches, including one win, two draws, and one loss.

• Shubham Khajuria: A dynamic all-rounder who can change the course of the game with both bat and ball.
• Abdul Samad: A key wicket-taker and a steady presence in the middle order.
• Yawer Hassan: Known for his spin and ability to take crucial wickets in the second innings.
• Umar Nazir Mir: A high-risk, high-reward player who can have a massive impact in fantasy leagues.

Umar Nazir Mir is recommended for grand leagues due to his potential to deliver match-winning performances.

Weather & Pitch Conditions

The match will be played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, which typically offers a balanced pitch, favoring both bat and ball. The weather is expected to be pleasant, with no significant disruptions expected. This should allow for a full contest between bat and ball, making it an exciting match for spectators.

Fantasy Cricket Insights (Dream11)

• Small League Pick: Vaibhav Arora – A consistent performer and key player for Himachal Pradesh.
• Grand League Pick: Umar Nazir Mir – High potential with a risk-reward balance.
• Captaincy Pick: Vaibhav Arora or Shubham Khajuria – Both have the potential to deliver match-defining performances.

Match Prediction

With a better head-to-head record and a more balanced squad, Jammu & Kashmir are slight favorites to win this match. However, the home advantage and the performance of key players like Vaibhav Arora could tilt the scales in favor of Himachal Pradesh.

Live Score & Broadcast

Fans can follow the live score and commentary of the Himachal Pradesh vs Jammu & Kashmir match on popular platforms such as:

• Cricbuzz
• ESPN Cricinfo
• Possible11
• Dream11

Conclusion

This is a crucial match for both teams as they look to climb the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 standings. While Jammu & Kashmir come into the match with the upper hand, Himachal Pradesh will be determined to prove themselves on home soil. The battle between the key players and the team’s tactical approach will be the deciding factors in this exciting encounter.

Stay tuned for updates and live coverage as the action unfolds on January 29, 2026.
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