Bengal Beat Chandigarh by 6 Wickets: Shami Takes 3, Porel Hits Ton in VHT 2025-26.

Bengal Beat Chandigarh by 6 Wickets: Shami Takes 3, Porel Hits Ton in VHT 2025-26.

Bengal vs Chandigarh, Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: Bengal Opt to Bowl First as Mohammed Shami Returns to Action.

                    In a crucial Elite Group B encounter of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, Bengal captain Abhimanyu Easwaran won the toss and elected to bowl first against Chandigarh at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on December 29, 2025.

            The decision to chase highlighted Bengal's confidence in their potent bowling attack, spearheaded by the returning Mohammed Shami, alongside Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep.

This match marked a significant moment for Indian cricket fans, as Shami, making his way back into competitive rhythm after a prolonged absence from the national side, was in action for Bengal. His presence added firepower to an already formidable pace unit, raising expectations of a dominant display on a pitch known to assist seamers early on.

Toss and Playing XIs

Toss: Bengal won the toss and opted to bowl first.

Bengal Playing XI: Abhimanyu Easwaran (c), Abishek Porel (w), Sudip Kumar Gharami, Anustup Majumdar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Sumanta Gupta, Karan Lal, Akash Deep, Mohammed Shami, Vishal Sunil Bhati, Mukesh Kumar.

Chandigarh Playing XI: Arslan Khan, Manan Vohra (c), Arjun Azad, Tushar Joshi, Nikhil Thakur (w), Sanyam Saini, Taranpreet Singh, Jagjit Singh, Nishunk Birla, Rohit Dhanda, Hartejassvi Kapoor.

Live Streaming and Broadcast Details

Fans could catch the action live on the JioHotstar app and website, as this Round 3 clash was one of the select matches streamed during the tournament. Limited telecast was available on Star Sports channels for chosen games.

Pre-Match Context: Bengal's Quest for Momentum

Bengal entered the fixture with a mixed bag of results in the early rounds. After a strong start, they suffered a setback but were determined to climb the Group B standings. Led by the consistent Easwaran, their batting lineup featured reliable performers like Abishek Porel, who has been in fine touch as wicketkeeper-batter, and all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed, capable of turning games with both bat and ball.

The bowling department, however, was the talk of the town. With Shami leading the charge—fresh from impressive domestic performances in red-ball and T20 formats—Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep formed a trio that could dismantle any opposition. Shami's inclusion was particularly noteworthy; his rhythm and swing have been missed on the international stage, and this tournament offered him a platform to stake a claim for a national recall.

Analysts pointed out that Bengal's decision to bowl first aligned perfectly with their strengths. The Rajkot pitch in recent games had shown early assistance for pacers, and with dew likely to play a role later, chasing seemed the smarter option.

Chandigarh's Challenge: Seeking First Win

On the other hand, Chandigarh, captained by the experienced Manan Vohra, were desperate for their maiden victory in the campaign. After tough outings in previous matches, they needed their top order to fire. Openers Arslan Khan and Vohra, along with Arjun Azad and Tushar Joshi, possessed the firepower to post big totals. Azad, in particular, has shown promise with aggressive strokeplay.

Their middle order, bolstered by Sanyam Saini and all-rounders like Taranpreet Singh, added depth. The bowling unit relied on Jagjit Singh and Rohit Dhanda to provide breakthroughs, but they faced a stern test against Bengal's seasoned batters.

Chandigarh's strategy would likely revolve around building partnerships upfront and accelerating in the death overs, aiming for a score in excess of 300 to put pressure on Bengal's chase.

Mohammed Shami: The Spotlight Stealer

No preview of this match would be complete without delving into Mohammed Shami's role. The veteran pacer, known for his searing yorkers and reverse swing, has been in prolific form domestically. His recent wicket hauls in Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy underscored his fitness and sharpness.

For Bengal, Shami wasn't just a bowler; he was a leader. Teaming up with Mukesh and Akash Deep, this pace battery evoked memories of India's dominant attacks. Fans eagerly anticipated Shami's opening spell, hoping to see him dismantle Chandigarh's top order.

Shami's journey back has been inspirational. Overcoming injury setbacks, his performances sent a strong message to selectors. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where runs and wickets often translate to national opportunities, Shami's outings were under intense scrutiny.

Venue Insights: Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot

The Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot has hosted several high-scoring affairs in this tournament, but it hasn't been a complete batter's paradise. Early moisture has aided swing bowlers, while the surface flattens out later. Average first-innings scores hovered around 280-300, making Bengal's choice to bowl a calculated one.

Historical data from previous domestic games here showed teams chasing had a slight edge, especially with dew factoring in during evening sessions.

Key Battles to Watch
Mohammed Shami vs Manan Vohra: The experienced Chandigarh captain against India's premier seamer. Vohra's ability to play late would be tested against Shami's swing.

Akash Deep vs Arjun Azad: The young Chandigarh batter's aggression versus Deep's bounce and pace.

Abishek Porel's Counter-Attack: If Bengal chased, Porel's wicketkeeping-batting dual role could prove decisive.

Shahbaz Ahmed's All-Round Impact: His left-arm spin could exploit any turn, while his batting depth was crucial in the lower order.

Group B Standings and Stakes

Heading into this round, Group B was tightly contested. Bengal aimed to consolidate their position for a knockout spot, while Chandigarh needed wins to stay alive. A victory for Bengal would boost their net run rate significantly, given their bowling prowess.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 has already witnessed record-breaking performances, with high scores and individual brilliance. This clash promised more of the same.

Innings Recap: Chandigarh's Solid Foundation Crumbles

Chandigarh got off to a brisk start, with openers Arslan Khan and Manan Vohra adding quick runs. However, Shami struck early, clean-bowling Arjun Azad in the seventh over, setting the tone.

Vohra anchored the innings superbly, forming key partnerships with Tushar Joshi and Sanyam Saini. His classy 122 off 127 balls propelled Chandigarh forward, blending caution with aggression.

Despite regular wickets, Chandigarh posted a formidable 319 all out in 48.2 overs. Mukesh Kumar was the destroyer-in-chief with a five-wicket haul (5/59), while Shami chipped in with 3/69, justifying the decision to bowl first. The Bengal bowlers maintained discipline in the death overs, preventing a late surge.

Bengal's Chase: Porel and Shahbaz Shine

Chasing 320, Bengal needed a strong start. Abishek Porel delivered in spectacular fashion, smashing a blazing 106 off 84 balls, laced with boundaries. His innings provided the momentum, taking the pressure off the middle order.

Anustup Majumdar contributed a steady 63, forging a vital partnership. When wickets fell, Shahbaz Ahmed stepped up with an unbeaten 76, combining power and composure. Sumanta Gupta's quickfire 22* sealed the deal.

Bengal reached 320/4 in 47.4 overs, winning by six wickets with 14 balls to spare. It was a clinical chase, showcasing depth and temperament.

Post-Match Analysis: What It Means

Bengal's comprehensive victory propelled them up the table, earning crucial points. Porel's century and Mukesh's fifer earned plaudits, but Shami's controlled spell was equally vital.

For Chandigarh, Vohra's ton was a lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign. They remained winless, facing an uphill battle.

This result highlighted Bengal's balanced side—strong bowling backed by resilient batting. As the tournament progresses, they emerge as serious contenders.

Mohammed Shami's performance will fuel discussions about his international comeback. His three wickets on return were a statement.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy continues to deliver thrilling cricket, blending stars and emerging talents.