The Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Elite Group A continues with an intriguing matchup between Andhra and Baroda, set to take place at the Dr P.V.G. Raju ACA Sports Complex in Vizianagaram from October 25–28, 2025. Both sides have had contrasting starts — Andhra are yet to win this season after an opening-round draw, while Baroda arrive on the back of an emphatic victory. The contest promises to be a key early-season test for both teams looking to build momentum in India’s premier domestic competition.
Match Preview
Andhra will look to make home advantage count after a mixed start to their campaign. Their first match of the season ended in a draw against Uttar Pradesh, leaving them 5th in Elite Group A with 1 point and a quotient of 0.798. While their batting performed admirably, their bowling lacked penetration in the later stages, allowing UP to escape with a result.
In that game, Andhra posted a commanding 470 all out, powered by a superb 142 from Srikar Bharat and a patient 136 by Shaik Rasheed. The pair’s 194-run stand for the second wicket laid a strong platform, but the bowlers couldn’t capitalize, as UP replied with 471/8 declared. Skipper Ricky Bhui and Prithvi Raj Yarra picked up two wickets apiece, but breakthroughs were hard to come by on a flat surface.
Andhra’s strength lies in their batting depth, with Shaik Rasheed and Srikar Bharat in excellent touch. Rasheed, who scored 799 runs last season at an average of 53.27, has been their most consistent performer, while Bharat remains the team’s dependable anchor. Their bowling will again rely on KV Sasikanth and Tripurana Vijay, both of whom impressed last season with over 25 wickets each and economy rates below 3.1. For Andhra to challenge a confident Baroda side, they must find the cutting edge with the ball that eluded them last week.
Predicted Playing XI (Andhra):
Abhishek Reddy, Srikar Bharat, Shaik Rasheed, Ricky Bhui (c), Karan Shinde, Revanth Reddy, Ashwin Hebbar, KV Sasikanth, Saurabh Kumar, Prithvi Raj Yarra, Cheepurapalli Stephen
Key Players:
- Shaik Rasheed – Reliable middle-order presence, capable of long innings.
- Srikar Bharat – Experienced opener and proven match-winner.
- KV Sasikanth – Leader of the pace attack.
- Tripurana Vijay – Key in sustaining pressure through long spells.
Baroda Preview
Baroda enter this fixture in fine form after starting their Ranji Trophy campaign with a 7-wicket victory over Odisha at Cuttack. They are currently 3rd in Elite Group A with 6 points and a quotient of 2.018, a testament to their balance between bat and ball.
Their opening match showcased their all-round strength. After restricting Odisha to 271 in the first innings, Baroda piled up 413/7 declared, thanks to centuries from Shivalik Sharma (124) and Mitesh Patel (100). Off-spinner Mahesh Pithiya then dismantled Odisha’s batting with 6/63, ably supported by Bhargav Bhatt, who claimed three wickets. Baroda chased down a modest target of 32 runs to seal a dominant win.
The visitors’ success this season has been built around a potent spin attack and consistent middle-order contributions. Shivalik Sharma continues to impress, having scored 728 runs in 10 matches at an average of 52.00, while Shashwat Rawat provides stability alongside him. Their bowling duo of Pithiya (46 wickets) and Bhatt (41 wickets) gives Baroda a decisive edge in turning conditions.
Predicted Playing XI (Baroda):
Jyotsnil Singh, Shivalik Sharma, Shashwat Rawat, S.A. Pandey, Vishnu Solanki, Mitesh Patel, Atit Sheth (c), Mahesh Pithiya, Rasikh Salam, Bhargav Bhatt, Lukman Meriwala
Key Players:
- Shivalik Sharma – In top batting form, strong in partnerships.
- Mitesh Patel – Aggressive stroke-maker capable of changing momentum.
- Mahesh Pithiya – Baroda’s ace spinner and key wicket-taker.
- Bhargav Bhatt – Left-arm spinner who complements Pithiya effectively.
Team Form & Recent Results
Andhra (Last 5 Matches): D–L–W–L–D
Baroda (Last 5 Matches): W–D–W–L–W
Baroda’s consistency gives them a psychological advantage, while Andhra’s inability to convert good batting starts into wins remains a concern.
Head-to-Head Record
- Last 5 Meetings: Andhra 2W – 1D – 2L
- Most Recent Match: Baroda beat Andhra by 8 wickets (Ranji Trophy 2024–25)
The historical record remains balanced, though Baroda’s current momentum makes them slight favorites heading into this clash.
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
Venue: Dr P.V.G. Raju ACA Sports Complex, Vizianagaram
The pitch in Vizianagaram typically offers a good balance between bat and ball. Early movement for pacers gradually gives way to turn for spinners from day three onward. Batting first remains an advantage, as the surface tends to deteriorate late in the game.
Toss Prediction: Bat First
Teams winning the toss should look to post a first-innings total above 400 to stay in control.
Weather Outlook:
Temperatures will range between 22°C and 32°C, with partly cloudy skies. Light showers are possible on day two, but major rain interruptions are unlikely.
Tactical Analysis & Key Battles
Andhra’s success will hinge on their top-order partnerships and ability to counter Baroda’s spinners. Expect Shaik Rasheed and Srikar Bharat to anchor the innings while looking to rotate strike effectively. On the other hand, Baroda’s Mahesh Pithiya and Bhargav Bhatt will test the patience of Andhra’s middle order.
Baroda’s batting lineup also faces a challenge from KV Sasikanth, who will aim to exploit early movement under Vizianagaram’s morning conditions. Shivalik Sharma vs Sasikanth could be the game-defining duel.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
Top Betting Picks:
- Baroda to Win (1.80): Momentum and superior spin attack.
- Top Batter – Shivalik Sharma: Consistent and technically solid.
- Top Bowler – Mahesh Pithiya: Match-winning form from the first round.
Featured Snippet:
- Fixture: Andhra vs Baroda, Elite Group A – Ranji Trophy 2025–26
- Venue: Dr P.V.G. Raju ACA Sports Complex, Vizianagaram
- Dates: October 25–28, 2025
- Start Time: 9:30 AM IST
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: Star Sports Network
Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar
Match Start: 9:30 AM IST / 4:00 AM GMT
Prediction: Andhra vs Baroda, Ranji Trophy 2025–26
Baroda’s confidence, experience, and in-form spin duo give them the edge heading into this contest. Andhra’s batting can post big scores, but without sharper bowling, they might struggle to claim 20 wickets. Expect a strong start from the visitors as they look to build on early momentum.
Final Prediction: Andhra 340 & 250 – Baroda 420 & 180/3
Result: Baroda win by 7 wickets
Best Bet: Baroda to Win
Alternative Value: Mahesh Pithiya – Top Bowler
Baroda’s balance and depth should be enough to outplay Andhra, continuing their early dominance in the Ranji Trophy group stage.
