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The brand new season of the Maharashtra Premier League kicks off on June 4 with a thrilling opener between reigning champions Ratnagiri Jets and last season’s runners-up Eagle Nashik Titans at the MCA Stadium in Pune.
This match marks the first meeting since the dramatic final last year where Ratnagiri Jets defeated Nashik Titans by 24 runs to clinch the title. The venue has historically been a balanced pitch favoring both batters and bowlers, making it a perfect stage for high-intensity T20 cricket.
Both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a positive note. While the Jets carry the momentum of being defending champions, the Titans will look to avenge their final loss and begin their campaign strongly.
Match Details
| Match | RGJ vs ENT – Opening Match, Maharashtra Premier League 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date & Time (IST) | Wednesday, June 4, 2025 – 7:00 PM |
| Venue | MCA Stadium, Pune |
| Toss Timing | Around 6:45 PM IST |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
| Pitch Report | Balanced; assists spinners and seamers |
| Weather Forecast | Warm; 27°C; slight rain threat; 71% humidity |
Team Previews
Ratnagiri Jets Preview
The Ratnagiri Jets enter this season as defending champions and are expected to be strong contenders once again. They topped the league phase last year with six wins from ten matches before going on to win the final against Nashik Titans.
Their batting is led by Dhiraj Phatangare, who was their top run-scorer last season with 290 runs. Azim Kazi, the captain, adds stability with his all-round ability — scoring 289 runs and picking up four wickets. Wicketkeeper-batter Nikhil Naik also contributed significantly with 246 runs.
In the middle order, Divyang Hinganekar (12 wickets) and Satyajeet Bachhav (25 wickets) offer control and experience. Bachhav was the tournament’s leading wicket-taker last season and remains the key bowler for the Jets.
Pradeep Dhade and Vijay Pawle provide pace options, while Sahil Churi and Kiran Chormale chip in with useful cameos down the order.
With experienced Ranji players and a well-rounded squad, the Jets are well-prepared for another strong campaign. Their familiarity with pressure games gives them an edge over their opponents.
Predicted Playing XI:
Dhiraj Phatangare, Azim Kazi (c), Nikhil Naik (wk), Abhishek Pawar, Kiran Chormale, Sahil Churi, Ashkan Kazi, Vijay Pawle, Pradeep Dhade, Divyang Hinganekar, Satyajeet Bachhav
Eagle Nashik Titans Preview
The Eagle Nashik Titans narrowly missed out on the title last season after falling short in the final chase against Ratnagiri Jets. They were consistent in the group stage but struggled under pressure when it mattered most.
This season, they’ll rely heavily on Atharva Kale, who was their highest run-getter with 337 runs at an average of 33.7. Arshin Kulkarni, the aggressive opener, chipped in with 307 runs and is known for explosive starts. Mandar Bhandari also played handy knocks throughout the season.
However, their top-order inconsistency was exposed in big matches, especially against Ratnagiri Jets, where they failed to build partnerships early.
The bowling unit is led by Mukesh Choudhary (21 wickets) and Prashant Solanki (14 wickets). Both have proven to be effective with the new ball and can trouble any batting lineup. However, they lacked support from the rest of the attack last season.
If the Titans want to challenge the Jets, they’ll need contributions across the board. Youngsters like Kaushal Tambe and Hari Sawant must step up and take responsibility.
Despite missing the title last year, the Titans have enough firepower to bounce back. But they’ll need to overcome their mental block against the Jets if they’re to start their campaign on a high.
Predicted Playing XI:
Mandhar Bhandari (wk), Arshin Kulkarni, Sahil Parakh, Kaushal Tambe, Atharva Kale, Mukesh Choudhary, Ranjeet Nikam, Manoj Ingale, Hari Sawant, Akshay Waikar, Prashant Solanki (c)
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Favourite Team | Why? |
|---|---|
| Ratnagiri Jets | As defending champions, Ratnagiri Jets boast a more balanced squad with key performers like Satyajeet Bachhav and Azim Kazi. They have a superior head-to-head record, including a final win over Nashik Titans. Their batting depth and bowling consistency give them an edge. Unless Nashik Titans find form quickly, Jets should start their title defense with a win. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player Name | Role | Team | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atharva Kale | Batsman | ENT | Top scorer for Titans last season |
| Dhiraj Phatangare | Batsman | RGJ | Leading run-getter for Jets |
| Azim Kazi | All-rounder | RGJ | Captain and reliable contributor |
| Nikhil Naik | WK-Batsman | RGJ | Valuable lower-order runs and safe gloves |
| Arshin Kulkarni | Batsman | ENT | Explosive opener; good strike rate |
| Satyajeet Bachhav | Bowler | RGJ | Leading wicket-taker last season |
| Mukesh Choudhary | Bowler | ENT | Key pacer with consistent returns |
| Divyang Hinganekar | Bowler | RGJ | Experienced seamer with control |
| Prashant Solanki | Bowler | ENT | Skilled spinner and captaincy pick |
| Sahil Churi | All-rounder | RGJ | Useful lower-order hitter |
| Manoj Ingale | Bowler | ENT | Left-arm spinner with variations |
Explanation:
This fantasy team blends top performers from both sides. Ratnagiri Jets dominate due to their superior stats and recent success. Satyajeet Bachhav is a must-pick after taking 25 wickets last season. Dhiraj Phatangare and Atharva Kale are top scorers, while Azim Kazi brings all-round value. Mukesh Choudhary and Prashant Solanki offer vital bowling impact.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions:
- Captain: Satyajeet Bachhav (RGJ) – Tournament’s leading wicket-taker last season.
- Vice-Captain: Atharva Kale (ENT) – Highest run-getter for Titans; aggressive striker.
Players to Avoid:
- Kiran Chormale (RGJ) – Struggles for consistency and impact recently.
- Kaushal Tambe (ENT) – Lacks big scores and hasn’t made much impact yet.
Team Squads
Ratnagiri Jets Squad (2025):
Dhiraj Phatangare, Azim Kazi (c), Nikhil Naik (wk), Abhishek Pawar, Kiran Chormale, Sahil Churi, Ashkan Kazi, Vijay Pawle, Pradeep Dhade, Divyang Hinganekar, Satyajeet Bachhav, Ruturaj Gaikwad (support staff), Saurabh Shinde, Swapnil Gugale, Ankit Bawne, Rahul Tripathi, Aditya Tare, Swapnil Soni, Omkar Salvi, Akshay Wakhare, Nilesh Lambole
Eagle Nashik Titans Squad (2025):
Mandhar Bhandari (wk), Arshin Kulkarni, Sahil Parakh, Kaushal Tambe, Atharva Kale, Mukesh Choudhary, Ranjeet Nikam, Manoj Ingale, Hari Sawant, Akshay Waikar, Prashant Solanki (c), Shardul Thakur (support staff), Shivam Singh, Akshay Karnewar, Siddhesh Wable, Yash Dubey, Vishnu Vinod, Milind More, Ramesh Mendhe, Rohit Shelke
Probable Playing XI
| Ratnagiri Jets | Eagle Nashik Titans |
|---|---|
| Dhiraj Phatangare | Arshin Kulkarni |
| Azim Kazi (c) | Mandhar Bhandari (wk) |
| Nikhil Naik (wk) | Sahil Parakh |
| Abhishek Pawar | Kaushal Tambe |
| Kiran Chormale | Atharva Kale |
| Sahil Churi | Mukesh Choudhary |
| Ashkan Kazi | Ranjeet Nikam |
| Vijay Pawle | Manoj Ingale |
| Pradeep Dhade | Hari Sawant |
| Divyang Hinganekar | Akshay Waikar |
| Satyajeet Bachhav | Prashant Solanki (c) |
Pitch Report
- Venue: MCA Stadium, Pune
- Batting Conditions: Good track for strokeplay; even bounce and true carry.
- Bowling Conditions: Spinners get help; left-armers thrive here. Pacers benefit from early movement.
- Recent Scores: Average first-innings score is around 175–180.
- Second Innings: Chasing easier due to dew setting in late evening.
Ideal Total: 170–180
Toss Prediction
Out of 34 matches at this venue last season, 18 were won by chasing teams. With dew playing a role later in the night, the toss is likely to be opted for bowling first , giving the side chasing a better chance to chase under lights.
Winner Prediction
While both teams are evenly matched, Ratnagiri Jets hold the psychological advantage having beaten Nashik Titans in the previous season’s final. Their batting is stronger and more experienced, and their bowling department is led by last season’s top wicket-taker.
🎯 Final Verdict: Ratnagiri Jets to win the opening match of Maharashtra Premier League 2025.
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