SMAT 2025-26 Final Face-Off: Jharkhand vs Haryana in Quest for First Glory

After three weeks of intense cricket action, the youthful teams of Haryana and Jharkhand are set to compete for their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, as they meet in the finals at the MCA Stadium this Thursday.

Leading their teams with commendable batting performances, captains Ishan Kishan of Jharkhand and Ankit Kumar of Haryana have been instrumental in their teams’ successes. Despite this, their paths through the tournament have differed.

Jharkhand impressed by remaining unbeaten through nine games in the group and Super League stages, only stumbling against Andhra on Tuesday.

For Haryana, as described by captain Ankit, each match felt like a do-or-die situation. After two initial losses in the group stage and a defeat to defending champions Mumbai in the Super League, Haryana delivered a powerful performance against Hyderabad to improve its Net Run Rate (NRR) and secure a spot in the final.

Anchored by Ankit’s outstanding form, tallying 448 runs in 10 innings, Haryana’s aggressive PowerPlay strategies have been effective. The middle-order also bolstered the team’s Super League campaign.

The presence of dew during the finals could play a significant role, making the toss critical. Haryana will count on fast bowlers Anshul Kamboj and Ishant Bhardwaj for a strong start, potentially paving the way for off-spinner Amit Rana to make an impact.

According to Jharkhand’s captain Kishan, his team will rely on their proven strategies. With Virat Singh returning to form, they aim to capitalize on the PowerPlay before the middle-order steps in.

On a flat pitch, Jharkhand will look to Vikash Singh and Sushant Mishra to maintain control and secure their maiden title.

Published on December 17, 2025.