The grand finale of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 is set to unfold on Sunday, January 18, as Vidarbha lock horns with Saurashtra at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 in Bengaluru. Both teams have enjoyed impressive campaigns, and the title clash promises high-intensity cricket with the stakes at their highest. With form, confidence, and momentum on their side, the two finalists will be eager to deliver a memorable contest and claim the prestigious domestic 50-over crown.

Vidarbha have been outstanding throughout the tournament, producing consistent performances at every stage. Their most defining moment came in the semi-final, where they defeated the defending champions in a dramatic encounter, avenging last season’s final loss. Under Harsh Dubey’s leadership, Vidarbha will be determined to go one step further and lift the trophy. Saurashtra, meanwhile, booked their final berth by beating Punjab and showcasing remarkable consistency. Led by Harvik Desai, they will aim to cap off their strong run with a championship-winning performance.

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VHT 2025-26, Final, VID vs SAU: Live Streaming Details

VHT 2025-26, Final, VID vs SAU: Probable Playing XI

Vidarbha

Atharva Taide, Aman Mokhade, Dhruv Shorey, Ravikumar Samarth, Yash Rathod, Harsh Dubey (C), Rohit Binkar (WK), Nachiket Bhute, Yash Kadam, Darshan Nalkande, Yash Thakur

Saurashtra

Harvik Desai (C & WK), Vishvaraj Jadeja, Prerak Mankad, Sammar Gajjar, Chirag Jani, Ruchit Ahir, Parswaraj Rana, Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, Jaydev Unadkat, Ankur Panwar, Chetan Sakariya

Vidarbha are dreaming of their first Vijay Hazare Trophy title by reaching the Final for the 2025-26 edition after beating the defending champions Karnataka by six wickets in the first Semi-final. Vidarbha have reached the back-to-back Vijay Hazare Trophy Finals after taking a strong revenge for their last Vijay Hazare Trophy Final defeat against Karnataka. 

Karnataka chose to field first in the day-night match at Bengaluru. After a poor start, Karnataka were all out for 280 in 49.4 overs. In reply, Vidarbha chased down the target in 46.2 overs after losing four wickets. 

Darshan Nalkande claimed fifer to control Karnataka innings

Karnataka openers, captain Mayank Agarwal (9) and Devdutt Padikkal (4), were dismissed in single digits, as they were struggling at 20/2. While Dhruv Prabhakar (28) was dismissed after getting a start, Karun Nair and Krishnan Shrijith had a strong 113-run partnership for the fourth wicket. 

Nair scored 74 off 90 balls with eight fours and one six, while Shrijith was dismissed soon after Nair with the score of 54 off 53 balls with seven fours. Shreyas Gopal (36) and Abhinav Manohar (26) then had a 55-run partnership for the sixth wicket. In the lower-order batting, only Vijaykumar Vyshak managed to reach the double-digit score with 17 runs off 11 balls. 

Darshan Nalkande was brilliant with the ball, as the right-arm pacer claimed a fifer and ended with the bowling figures of 10-0-48-5. Nalkande dismissed four set batters who were Dhruv Prabhakar (28), Karun Nair (74), Shreyas Gopal (36) and Abhinav Manohar (26), along with Vidyadhar Patil (1). Also, Yash Thakur got two wickets, finishing with the bowling figures of 9.4-3-64-2.

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Aman Mokhade slammed powerful century

Although the Vidarbha opener Atharva Taide (6) was dismissed cheaply, his opening partner Aman Mokhade was the hero of the match with a memorable century. There were back-to-back strong partnerships, as Aman had a 98-run partnership with Dhruv Shorey (47) for the second wicket, and a powerful 147-run partnership with Ravikumar Samarth for the third wicket.

Aman scored 138 of 122 balls with 12 fours and two sixes. It was his fifth century in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. Meanwhile, Ravikumar was not out for 76 off 69 balls with the help of seven fours, as these top strong batting performances were enough for them to win the match against the defending champions. 

Vidarbha’s build-up to the 2025–26 domestic season has just suffered a huge blow with the anticipated exodus of two of their star players—Karun Nair and Jitesh Sharma. They were two of the major players during Vidarbha's largely successful 2024–25 season, in which they were able to lift the Ranji Trophy, reach the finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and qualify for the quarter-finals of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).

Karun Nair made a great recovery back after a disappointing stint with Karnataka to be with Vidarbha and had a great red-ball season, finishing with 863 runs from nine matches—fourth overall for the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season. His established consistency not only resurrected his domestic career but also earned him a testimonial opportunity within the India Test squad for the England series. Nair was prolific in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 779 runs, which crowned him as the highest scorer of the tournament. Rumors are that he is returning to Karnataka to finish his journey at home in his original state.

Karun Nair and Jitesh Sharma have decided to leave Vidarbha. (Cricbuzz). pic.twitter.com/GSNFwJ6IiO

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 19, 2025

Also Read: Echoes of excellence: June 20 in Indian Test history

Jitesh Sharma's Move to Baroda Signals New Chapter

Joining Nair, Jitesh Sharma, a veteran wicketkeeper-batter from Vidarbha, is also on the move, with reports suggesting he will be heading in the direction of Baroda. Jitesh led Vidarbha in the SMAT and played under Nair's captaincy in the Vijay Hazare Trophy; both exhibited versatility during the 2024–25 season and leadership for the team in tough situations. He further raised his profile during IPL 2025, playing for RCB and even captaining the side for stretches due to Rajat Patidar's unavailability.

Baroda, reportedly searching for a proven leader, could have just the player—someone that could not only hold the innings together but also manage the others while working within the responsibilities of a keeper and a leader—someone that could make the difference for the western side. While Jitesh's switch looks likely to occur in the coming days, his departure, along with that of Karun Nair leaving Vidarbha, brings another significant moment to a close for Vidarbha cricket.

Match 5 of the Vidarbha Premier League (VPL) 2025 features an exciting clash between the Pagariya Strikers Nagpur (PAS) and Bharat Rangers (BHR) on June 7 at 7:45 PM IST. As the tournament heats up, both teams will be eager to register a key victory under the lights. Playing at the VPL can pose some difficulties for batters with the dimensions of the boundaries as well as the low scores on the pitch in past editions.

Match Details 

• Date: June 7, 2025 
• Time: 07:45 PM IST
• Venue: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur
• Win % Batting First: 33%
• Win % Bowling First: 67%

Weather Report:

A very warm and dry Evening is anticipated in Nagpur on match day, with temperatures between 33° C and 35° C. Rain, with a negligible 2% chance of occurring as showers, is increasingly improbable. The air will see light winds, and humidity of around 58% should cause moderate discomfort to players but have no impact on gameplay. 

• Temperature: 35-40° C
• Winds: Light winds (~10 - 12 km/h), unlikely to affect gameplay
• Rain: 4%—no expected rain interruption
• Humidity: Moderate (minimal affect on fitness and fielding)

Also Read: RJ vs KT: Match 05 Weather and Pitch Report – MPL 2025

Pitch Report: 

The pitch at VCA Stadium continues to play slow and 'sluggish,' favoring bowlers, and seamers in particular with the new ball and spinners later on. The sting of large boundaries will not help clear the boundary any easier, and scores between 120 and 130 could make for a competitive total. Expect captains to want to bat first, with new conditions and scoreboard pressure.

• Nature of Surface: Two-paced; seam early on and spin later on
• Spinners: Should play a big role in the middle and death overs
• Boundary Dimensions: Long straight/square boundaries; a challenging six-hitting ground

Records at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium:

• Highest Team Total: 131-10 BR vs NMB
• Lowest Team Total: 108-10 NMB vs BR
• Average First Innings Total: 126 runs.

Match 4 of the Vidarbha Premier League (VPL) 2025 is upon us, with the Nagpur Titans (NAT) taking on Narco Master Blaster (NMB) on June 7 at 2:45 PM IST. As both teams try to earn points early in the season, we can look forward to a thrilling game in the afternoon sun. Playing at the VPL can pose some difficulties for batters with the dimensions of the boundaries as well as the low scores on the pitch in past editions.

Match Details 

• Date: June 7, 2025 
• Time: 02:45 PM IST
• Venue: Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur
• Win % Batting First: 33%
• Win % Bowling First: 67%

Weather Report:

A very warm and dry afternoon is anticipated in Nagpur on match day, with temperatures between 33° C and 35° C. Rain, with a negligible 2% chance of occurring as showers, is increasingly improbable. The air will see light winds, and humidity of around 58% should cause moderate discomfort to players but have no impact on gameplay. 

• Temperature: 33-35° C
• Winds: Light winds (~10 - 12 km/h), unlikely to affect gameplay
• Rain: 3%—no expected rain interruption
• Humidity: Moderate (minimal affect on fitness and fielding)

Also Read: RJ vs KT: Match 05 Weather and Pitch Report – MPL 2025

Pitch Report: 

The pitch at VCA Stadium continues to play slow and 'sluggish,' favoring bowlers, and seamers in particular with the new ball and spinners later on. The sting of large boundaries will not help clear the boundary any easier, and scores between 120 and 130 could make for a competitive total. Expect captains to want to bat first, with new conditions and scoreboard pressure.

• Nature of Surface: Two-paced; seam early on and spin later on
• Spinners: Should play a big role in the middle and death overs
• Boundary Dimensions: Long straight/square boundaries; a challenging six-hitting ground

Records at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium:

• Highest Team Total: 131-10 BR vs NMB
• Lowest Team Total: 108-10 NMB vs BR
• Average First Innings Total: 126 runs.

The final of the Ranji Trophy is being played out and the title will be determined on March 2, 2025. The 90th Ranji Trophy is nearing its conclusion and the game between Kerala and Vidarbha has been nothing less than an enthralling contest at the VCA Stadium in Jamtha, Nagpur. The elite tournament of Ranji Trophy was inaugurated for the first time during the 1934-35 season and is considered India's top first-class tournament. Originally, it had been titled Cricket Championship of India and later called Ranji Trophy in the succeeding year.

VIDARBHA HAS WON 3 RANJI TROPHY TITLES IN JUST 7 YEARS 🤯

- New force of Indian Domestic Cricket. pic.twitter.com/grTjVqWxLd

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 2, 2025

ALSO SEE: Karun Nair's Ranji Trophy Heroics: 86 & 135 – A Strong Case for India Test Recall!

Vidarbha's Rise to Domestic Cricket
Vidarbha's journey to Ranji Trophy glory began in 2017-18 when they reached their first final. Faiz Fazal led them to their first title by defeating Delhi. They retained their title the following year by defeating Saurashtra, joining an elite group of teams that have won consecutive titles.
Nair, during his game against Kerala, was observed showing great calmness while batting, scoring his hundred off 184 balls. His whack, marked with seven fours and two sixes, contributed to Vidarbha reaching 249/4 at stumps, taking their overall lead to 286 runs after Kerala's first innings of 342.

Karnataka vs Vidarbha: Key Details for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 Final

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 has reached its finishing stage after an exciting series of matches. The much anticipated final will see Karnataka face Vidarbha in a battle for the title. Here's everything you need to know about the big match, including the schedule, venue, and live streaming details.

In their semi-final clash, Vidarbha delivered a dominant performance against Maharashtra. Karun Nair was the star of the match, smashing an incredible 88 runs off just 44 balls, featuring 9 fours and 5 sixes. His explosive innings helped Vidarbha post a massive total of 380 runs. Maharashtra, in response, managed only 311 runs, falling short of the target. Nair's outstanding form in the tournament has been a game-changer for Vidarbha, with 752 runs to his name so far, making him one of the key reasons for the team’s success.

Karnataka, on the other hand, secured their spot in the final with an impressive victory over Haryana. This marks Karnataka’s fifth appearance in a Vijay Hazare Trophy final, showcasing their consistent performance throughout the tournament.  

ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik reasons why in-form Karun Nair can't be added to Indian ODI team

VHT Final Match Details:

When and Where to Watch KAR vs VID:

Reliance Stadium Pitch Report:

Official Umpires for Match:

KAR vs VID Squads:

Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, graced the Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday (12th March) for the finale of the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023-24, where Mumbai and Vidarbha locked horns in the summit clash. Fresh off leading Team India in the England series, Rohit Sharma exemplified his commitment to the Ranji Trophy by forgoing rest and attending the final, bolstering the spirits of players from both sides.

In recent times, Rohit Sharma, alongside the team management and the BCCI, has been fervently advocating for the significance of red-ball cricket. This commitment was underscored by BCCI secretary Jay Shah’s introduction of incentive schemes to prioritize red-ball cricket over T20 leagues and white-ball formats.

Seen in Mumbai’s dressing room, Rohit Sharma engrossed himself in the game, accompanied by pacer Dhawal Kulkarni, meticulously observing and taking notes. His presence at the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 final swiftly circulated on the internet.

A Glimpse into the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 Final

Turning to the final showdown, Mumbai asserted dominance, emerging as favorites after posting a modest 224 in the first innings, with Shardul Thakur’s resilient 75 standing out. Mumbai’s bowlers shone brightly, restricting Vidarbha to a mere 105 runs, securing a substantial lead.

In the second innings, Mumbai showcased their prowess with the bat, led by Musheer Khan’s scintillating century, complemented by crucial contributions from Shreyas Iyer (95) and Ajinkya Rahane (73), propelling their lead to over 470 runs.

The emphasis on domestic cricket in Indian cricket gained traction following the recent incidents involving Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, who skipped the Ranji Trophy upon the team’s request, resulting in the termination of their national contracts by the BCCI.

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Rohit Sharma reiterated the importance of hunger for Test cricket, affirming that opportunities would be extended solely to players displaying such hunger. He emphasized the futility of selecting players lacking the requisite drive, stating, “We will give opportunities to only those who are hungry.”

The BCCI has unequivocally communicated to all players that unless engaged in national assignments, participation in domestic cricket for their respective state teams is imperative.

Faiz Fazal announced his retirement from professional cricket at the end of Vidarbha’s Ranji Trophy match against Haryana. In an Instagram post, he spoke about his 21-year-old ‘unforgettable ride’.

Vidarbha veteran opener and former captain retires

The veteran opener will retire as the leading run-getter in both List A and first-class cricket for Vidarbha. Fazal was Vidarbha’s captain when they won the Ranji Trophy for the very first time in 2017-18. They successfully defended the title in the next season under his leadership as well.

However, in his only appearance for India that happened in his 30s, Fazal scored a half-century. He was called up for the Zimbabwe tour in 2016 as the selectors sent a second-string squad. In the third ODI in Harare Fazal debuted and remained unbeaten in India’s dominant 10-wicket win.

With just one day remaining in Vidarbha’s this year’s Ranji game, yesterday Faiz Fazal took to the social media. He wrote, “Tomorrow marks the end of an era as I step onto the Nagpur ground for the last time, where my journey in first-class cricket began 21 incredible years ago,”. He added, “It’s been an unforgettable ride, filled with cherished memories that I’ll hold dear forever.”

Fazal about his journey

Fazal played 137 first-class matches, 113 List A games, and 66 T20 matches. He led Vidarbha in 53 first-class games, 36 times in List-A matches, and 27 T20 matches. Speaking of his illustrated career, the domestic giant said,

“Representing both the Indian Cricket Team and Vidarbha has been the greatest honor of my life, and donning those cricket jerseys has always filled me with immense pride. Farewell to my beloved Number 24 jersey – you’ll be deeply missed.”

Fazal also spoke about his future plans, “As one chapter closes, another awaits, and while bidding adieu to my professional cricket career fills me with mixed emotions, I’m eagerly looking forward to embracing the new adventures that lie ahead.”