SMAT 2025-26: Uncharted Territories and Fresh Alliances Ignite the Race to the Finals

Recently, Pune has been experiencing cold mornings, pleasant afternoons, and chilly evenings. With temperatures predicted to drop further in the coming days, the dew factor may significantly influence the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage evening matches starting this Friday.

This presents a challenge for all eight teams, especially since they will be missing key players who are occupied with international commitments. Clear role definitions will be crucial for success.

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Mumbai will have to compete without Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, and U-19 prodigy Ayush Mhatre. Similarly, Punjab will miss top performer Abhishek Sharma.

Hyderabad faces a similar situation as star batter Tilak Varma is busy with India’s T20I series against South Africa, presenting a challenge for the young team during this crucial competition phase. However, the team can take some comfort in the return of seasoned fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who, despite missing recent training sessions, is expected to join the team before the opening match.

As a thick fog enveloped the MCA Stadium on Thursday, Mumbai batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Siddhesh Lad spent considerable time in the nets, while Yashasvi Jaiswal opted out of the optional training session.

Matches will also be held at the DY Patil Academy ground in Ambi, a venue with minimal hosting history, making condition assessment crucial.

The expected batting-friendly pitches provide an opportunity for young talents like Musheer Khan and Mukul Choudhary, who steps in for the injured Kartik Sharma of Rajasthan, to showcase their abilities.

Published on Dec 11, 2025