Vidarbha clinched their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy title on January 18, 2026, defeating Saurashtra by 38 runs in the final at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground in Bengaluru. After posting a commanding total batting first, Vidarbha’s bowlers delivered disciplined performances to restrict Saurashtra and secure a memorable victory in India’s premier domestic one-day tournament.
Vidarbha set a challenging total
Vidarbha won the toss and elected to bat, posting a strong 317 for 8 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a brilliant century from Atharva Taide, who scored 128 off 118 balls with 15 fours and three sixes, forming crucial partnerships that kept the scoreboard ticking. Taide shared a 133-run second-wicket stand with Yash Rathod (54) after an early platform had been set in the powerplay. Taide’s knock was a key reason Vidarbha finished with a competitive total.
Saurashtra’s chase falls short
Chasing 318, Saurashtra began positively but lost momentum as Vidarbha’s bowlers struck at regular intervals. Half-centuries from Prerak Mankad (88) and Chirag Jani (64) showed resistance and promise, but the required rate remained demanding throughout. Saurashtra were eventually all out for 279 in 48.5 overs, falling 38 runs short of their target despite fighting contributions from the middle order.
Key bowling efforts and team effort
Vidarbha’s bowling unit backed up the strong batting performance with disciplined spells that proved decisive. Bowlers like Yash Thakur and Nachiket Bhute made key inroads at crucial stages, ensuring that Saurashtra could not capitalize on any partnerships for long. The collective effort with both bat and ball showcased Vidarbha’s depth and balance across disciplines.
A historic first Vijay Hazare title
This victory marked Vidarbha’s first Vijay Hazare Trophy crown, a major milestone in the team’s history and a testament to their growth in Indian domestic cricket. After finishing as runners-up in the previous season, Vidarbha’s consistency and strong performances throughout the tournament culminated in a memorable win that will be celebrated across the region.
Their campaign was defined by powerful batting from Taide and others, and a bowling attack capable of breaking key partnerships - qualities that ultimately delivered the title in dramatic fashion.
