The domestic cricket calendar in India is set for a blockbuster opening as the prestigious Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season kicks off. The 50-over tournament will see the country's top ODI stars return to their state teams, adding immense firepower and drawing national attention to the domestic arena.
Tournament Format and Key Dates
The competition is scheduled to be held across various cities in India from December 21, 2024, to January 18, 2025. The initial rounds begin on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. This season holds special significance as the Indian team management will be closely monitoring performances ahead of the crucial three-match ODI series against New Zealand in January.
A total of 32 Elite teams have been divided into four groups of eight. Each team will play seven round-robin matches within its group. The top two teams from each of the four groups will then progress to the knockout stage, culminating in the final.
Star-Studded Squads and Player Availability
In a major boost for domestic cricket, India's stalwarts including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul are expected to feature in the first few rounds for their respective teams. This provides a unique opportunity for fans to see these international icons in action at the state level and for selectors to assess form and fitness.
The squads for the initial rounds reveal a wealth of talent. In Group A, Karnataka boasts the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul, while Tamil Nadu will be led by Narayan Jagadeesan. Kerala's squad includes the explosive Sanju Samson.
Group B features Baroda, captained by Krunal Pandya with Hardik Pandya also in the ranks. Group C is headlined by a powerhouse Mumbai team captained by Shardul Thakur and featuring Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shivam Dube. Punjab, led by Shubman Gill, is another strong contender here.
In Group D, all eyes will be on Delhi, where the returning Rishabh Pant will captain a side that includes the legendary Virat Kohli. Andhra Pradesh, under Nitish Kumar Reddy, and a strong Saurashtra unit are also teams to watch.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
Fans across the country and globe will be able to follow the action. Select league stage matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 will be televised live on the Star Sports Khel channel. Simultaneously, these matches will be live-streamed on the JioCinema app and website, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all cricket enthusiasts.
The return of India's biggest stars to the Vijay Hazare Trophy underscores the tournament's importance as a breeding ground for international talent and a crucial platform for established players to regain rhythm. With intense competition across groups and a direct pathway to national selection, the 2025-26 season promises to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory.
