The
Vijay Hazare Trophy's Elite B group carries on through the festive period, and this fixture between "
Chandigarh" and "
Jammu And Kashmir" offers more intrigue than the December timing might suggest. Both sides arrive with contrasting rhythms, though neither has enjoyed the most convincing form heading into this 50-over encounter.
"
Jammu And Kashmir" will take some confidence from their recent showing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. They finished that campaign with three consecutive wins, victories that were hard-earned and reflected a side discovering its spine in the shorter format. Still, domestic one-day cricket demands different virtues — patience with the bat, discipline with the ball, and partnerships that gradually accumulate pressure rather than explode into quick boundaries.
"
Chandigarh," by contrast, struggled through the T20 tournament. They managed just two wins from seven outings, and there was a familiar brittleness about their batting, with totals oscillating between competence and collapse. That said, the longer format may suit them better; they carry experience in their middle order, and on a pitch likely to offer something early on, their seamers could ask uncomfortable questions.
It's worth noting the shift from one format to another can unsettle rhythm or restore it, depending on the temperament of a squad. Some sides thrive when given time to rebuild after early wickets; others miss the licence to attack freely.
From what we've seen recently, "
Jammu And Kashmir" appear to have found better cohesion. Their bowlers tightened significantly during that winning streak, and while 50-over cricket requires sustained accuracy rather than mere bursts of aggression, the foundations seem sound. "
Chandigarh" will need their top order to absorb pressure and set platforms, something they managed inconsistently in recent weeks.
On balance, "
Jammu And Kashmir" hold a sporting advantage going into this contest. They carry momentum, and perhaps more importantly, a settled unit that has learnt to close out tight games. Still, nothing is guaranteed, and domestic cricket has a habit of humbling the confident.
