Hubli Tigers vs Shivamogga Lions Prediction, Standings, Stats: 12/8/2025

The Maharaja T20 Trophy returns for the 2025 season with 34 matches, all staged at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore. The third fixture sees Hubli Tigers clash with Shivamogga Lions on Tuesday afternoon. Both teams will be eager to make a strong early impression, setting the stage for an entertaining contest for fans and punters alike.

Hubli Tigers: Seeking a Strong Start

The Hubli Tigers had a commendable run last season, finishing third in the league phase with six wins from ten matches, before bowing out in the semi-finals against Mysore Warriors.

This year’s squad features a mix of fresh talent and key returning players. Abhinav Manohar, one of the tournament’s most dangerous batters, is back after a stellar 2024 campaign where he scored 507 runs in 10 matches at a blistering strike rate of 196.51. Supporting him is Devdutt Padikkal, whose ability to anchor innings while striking big makes him a crucial asset. Additional batting depth comes from Shrijith Krishnan and Mohammed Taha, both capable of accelerating the scoring.

With the ball, Manvanth Kumar is expected to spearhead the attack after finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker last season with 15 wickets in 10 matches. He also offers handy lower-order hitting. Spin options KC Cariappa and Nischith Pai provide control and variety, while the final XI could include either Sankalp Shettennavar or Shreesha Achar as well as Samarth Nagaraj or Yash Punja.

Predicted XI: Abhinav Manohar, Devdutt Padikkal, Prakhar Chaturvedi, Karthikeya KP, Shrijith Krishnan (wk), Mohammed Taha, Manvanth Kumar, Nischith Pai, KC Cariappa, Sankalp Shettennavar/Shreesha Achar, Samarth Nagaraj/Yash Punja

Shivamogga Lions: Aiming to Bounce Back

The Shivamogga Lions endured a disappointing 2024 season, managing just three wins in ten matches. However, new signings bring optimism for a turnaround.

Batting hopes rest heavily on Aneeshwar Gautam, who scored 211 runs in nine innings last year at a strike rate of 134.39. He will be joined by experienced campaigner Anirudha Joshi, and all-rounders Hardik Raj and Sahil Sharma to add depth. Tushar Singh is another batter with the ability to change the game’s momentum.

In the bowling unit, Vidwath Kaverappa and Deepak Devadiga offer reliability, while Hardik’s wicket-taking knack strengthens the attack. Veteran seamer MB Darshan brings experience, having claimed nine wickets in eight matches last season.

Predicted XI: Aneeshwar Gautam, Anirudha Joshi, Sahil Sharma, Tushar Singh, Nihal Ullal (wk), Vidwath Kaverappa, Deepak Devadiga, MB Darshan, Maribasava Chandrashekhar Gowda, Rohit Kumar K/Mohammad Ashfaq

Pitch, Weather, and Match Conditions

The Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground is known for its true bounce and quick outfield, making it a batting-friendly venue. Pacers may find some early movement, while spinners could come into play later if they vary their pace well.

For this afternoon fixture, scores in the 160–180 range are common, with teams aiming for 180+ to stay competitive. Chasing has historically been more successful here, with 44 of 80 T20s won by the team batting second.

The weather forecast points to cloudy conditions with possible afternoon showers, which could influence tactics and potentially shorten the game.

Winning Prediction

Both sides enter with revamped squads and dangerous players, but Hubli Tigers appear slightly better balanced on paper. Their top-order firepower, combined with an experienced bowling attack, gives them a narrow edge. However, if Shivamogga Lions win the toss and chase, the contest could be much closer.

Prediction: Hubli Tigers to win.