By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 20: The Meghalaya Cricket Association (MCA) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, with the team set to face Himachal Pradesh in their opening match on Saturday in Mumbai. The tournament, organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), marks an important chapter for Meghalaya as they aim to build on their performance in the domestic circuit.
The 15-member squad, along with five standby players, has been selected by the Senior Men’s Selection Committee for the first two matches of the tournament. Performances during these initial games will determine the composition of the team for subsequent fixtures. Meghalaya’s second match is scheduled against Railways on December 23.
In a move consistent with the strategy adopted during the preceding Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Meghalaya has opted for an entirely domiciled squad, foregoing the inclusion of guest professional players. This decision highlights the MCA’s commitment to nurturing local talent and providing homegrown cricketers with the opportunity to compete on the national stage.
Akash Kumar Choudhary, Meghalaya’s premier pace bowler, will lead the team as captain. He will be supported by vice-captain Lerry G Sangma, an experienced all-rounder. The squad comprises a balanced mix of seasoned players and promising young talents who have made their mark in the state’s age-level teams.
The 15-member squad includes Arien Bonchang Sangma, Arpit Bhatewara (wicketkeeper), Lerry G Sangma (vice-captain), Roshan Warbah, Kishan Lyngdoh, Md Nafees Siddique, Robert Sangma, Riboklang Hynniewta, Akash Kumar Choudhary (captain), Himan Phukan, Nishanta Chakravarty, Aryan Borah, Adarsh Joshi, Ibitlang Thabah, and Swarajeet Das.
The list of standby players features Pringsang Sangma, Wanlambok Nongkhlaw, Chengkam Sangma, Pankaj Mandal, and Yogesh Tiwari, who will step in if required.
The team will be guided by an experienced support staff, led by head coach Prabhakar Bairgond. Assisting him are Moisten Ch Marak (assistant coach), Surojit Biswas (physio), Vikash Singh Chauhan (trainer), and Amit Singhania (manager).
Meghalaya’s decision to field an all-domiciled squad underscores the MCA’s focus on local player development, but it also means the team will face tough challenges against stronger sides in the tournament. Despite the absence of professional guest players, the team boasts a lineup of players who have shown promise in domestic cricket, with Choudhary’s leadership expected to play a pivotal role.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy is one of India’s premier one-day tournaments, and Meghalaya will aim to showcase their progress in this format after their competitive outings in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The blend of experienced players and young talent provides the team with an opportunity to test its mettle against top-tier opposition, starting with Himachal Pradesh in their opener.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Meghalaya’s performance, particularly how the team adapts to the challenges of competing in a highly competitive domestic arena. The matches will also serve as a platform for players to stake their claim for higher recognition and further opportunities in Indian cricket.
Meghalaya’s journey in the Vijay Hazare Trophy begins today, with high hopes pinned on their captain, vice-captain, and an enthusiastic squad determined to make an impact.