Did Punjab and Vidarbha Outshine MP and Delhi to Secure Semifinal Spots in the Vijay Hazare Trophy?
Synopsis
In an exhilarating display of cricket, Punjab and Vidarbha triumphed over Madhya Pradesh and Delhi respectively to secure their spots in the semifinals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. With remarkable performances by key players, the stage is set for thrilling semifinals on January 15 and 16.
Key Takeaways
Punjab defeated Madhya Pradesh by 183 runs.
Vidarbha overcame Delhi by 76 runs.
The semifinals will feature Karnataka vs.
Vidarbha and Saurashtra vs.
Key players from Punjab include Sanvir Singh and Prabhsimran Singh .
Vidarbha's standout bowler was Nachiket Bhute .
Bengaluru, Jan 13 (NationPress) Punjab and Vidarbha have successfully clinched their places in the semifinals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 following impressive quarterfinal victories over Madhya Pradesh and Delhi on Tuesday. The Punjab team, under the captaincy of Prabhsimran Singh, achieved a stunning 183-run triumph against Rajat Patidar’s Madhya Pradesh. In another match, Delhi, led by Ishant Sharma, fell short by 76 runs against Vidarbha’s total of 301 runs.
These results confirm the four semifinalists. Karnataka will battle it out against Vidarbha in the first semifinal on January 15, while Saurashtra will take on Punjab in the second semifinal on January 16.
After losing the toss and being asked to bat, the Punjab cricket team had an outstanding start, with captain Prabhsimran Singh and Harnoor Singh forming a 116-run opening partnership. Although Madhya Pradesh managed to take wickets at regular intervals, Prabhsimran held firm, supported by Nehal Wadhera and Anmolpreet Singh as Punjab posted a formidable total of 345 for six in their allotted 50 overs.
In response, Rajat Patidar’s team struggled and collapsed for 162 runs in just 31.2 overs. Sanvir Singh emerged as the leading wicket-taker for Punjab with three wickets, while Ramandeep Singh, Krish Bhagat, and Gurnoor Brar each claimed two wickets.
In the fourth quarterfinal at the BCCI COE Ground 2 in Bengaluru, Vidarbha scored 300 for nine in their 50 overs. Yash Rathod was the standout performer with a match-winning 86 runs, while opener Atharva Taide contributed 62 runs off 72 balls.
Delhi’s chase began disastrously, losing four wickets for just 80 runs. Anuj Rawat provided some resistance with a 66-run innings but lacked support, leading to Delhi being bowled out for 224 in 45.1 overs.
Nachiket Bhute was the leading bowler for Vidarbha, taking four wickets, while Harsh Dubey continued his impressive form with three wickets and Praful Hinge added two wickets to his tally.
Point of View
The recent quarterfinals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy showcased remarkable talent and competitiveness. Both Punjab and Vidarbha displayed exceptional skill, securing their places in the semifinals. As fans anticipate the upcoming matches, the focus remains on the players' performances, reflecting the depth of cricketing talent in India.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the quarterfinal matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy?
Punjab and Vidarbha emerged victorious against Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, respectively.
When are the semifinals scheduled?
The semifinals are set for January 15 and 16, with Karnataka facing Vidarbha and Saurashtra taking on Punjab.
What were the standout performances in the quarterfinals?
Prabhsimran Singh's captaincy for Punjab and Yash Rathod's crucial innings for Vidarbha were noteworthy.
