Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh have emerged as one of the standout teams in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, delivering commanding performances built on consistent batting and smart team strategy. With five wins in as many matches, the side has showcased remarkable composure and depth, putting itself in a strong position ahead of the remaining league encounters against Vidarbha and Bengal.
A major highlight of UP’s campaign has been the reliability of its batting unit. In almost every match, the batsmen have risen to the occasion, posting challenging totals that opponents have struggled to chase. While openers Goswami and Juyel could not provide a solid start in the latest outing, the middle order once again stepped up to stabilise the innings.
Dhruv Jurel and Priyam Garg played a crucial role with a composed partnership, laying a strong foundation for a competitive total. Both batsmen brought up well-earned half-centuries, underlining their consistency. Rinku Singh, continuing his impressive form, added quick runs with a brisk 41 before returning to the pavilion. His intent and ability to accelerate in the middle overs have added a vital dimension to the UP batting line-up.
Further momentum came through Sameer Rizvi and Prashant Veer, who stitched together a valuable 75-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Rizvi, in particular, looked in aggressive touch, striking the ball over the ropes five times and keeping the scoreboard ticking. The decision to persist with players like Priyam Garg and Sameer Rizvi, despite earlier failures, has paid dividends, highlighting the management’s faith in talent and temperament.
The bowling unit has been equally impressive. The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav has further strengthened the team, while the decision to go with four spinners has proved to be a masterstroke. All the spinners are in excellent form, consistently delivering match-winning performances. Zeeshan Ansari has been exceptional, picking up 17 wickets in five matches and emerging as one of the tournament’s most effective bowlers.
Despite his strong performances across formats, including UP T20, Ansari’s absence from the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy remains a talking point. His current form reinforces the need for selectors to reward consistent performers.
With momentum firmly on their side, Uttar Pradesh look well-equipped to continue their winning run. If the team maintains this balance and belief, it has the potential to make a deep impact not just in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but across all domestic tournaments this season.
