The fifth encounter of the Maharani Trophy 2025 promises to be a compelling contest as Hubli Tigers Women take on Mangaluru Dragons Women at the KSCA Cricket Ground, Alur, starting 9:45 AM Indian Standard Time (IST), both teams will look to solidify their positions in the tournament and build early momentum. Hubli Tigers are coming into this match having shown glimpses of promise but will be eager to bounce back following recent setbacks, while the Mangaluru Dragons are keen to assert themselves in what is shaping up to be a closely contested league.
On the team front, Hubli Tigers Women will rely on their experienced players to deliver under pressure. Led by the steady Rajeshwari Gayakwad, they possess a balanced line-up, boasting both youthful exuberance and veteran know-how. Star performers such as Shreya Chavan and Krishika Reddy will be key with the bat, while their bowling lineup, particularly left-arm spinner Monica Patel, can be decisive if the pitch provides turn.
For the Mangaluru Dragons, this fixture represents an excellent opportunity to make a statement on the big stage. Their squad is a healthy mix of dynamic batters and disciplined bowlers, capable of adapting to match situations. The Dragons will likely target a strong start with the bat and look to exploit early morning conditions with their seamers, given the KSCA Cricket Ground’s reputation for assisting pace in the opening overs.
Squads:
Hubli Tigers Women’s Cricket Team
Krishika Reddy, Nandani Chauhan, Pooja Dhananjaya, BG Tejashwini, H Bhavika Reddy, Likhitha Vilveetil, Mansi Pundeer, Prathiksha C, Sakshi Munavalli, Annapurna G Bhosale, Shreya Chavan, Monica Patel, Priya Chavan, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Rameshwari Gayakwad, Rimjhim Shukla
Mangaluru Dragons Women’s Cricket Team
Liyanka Shetty, Prerana Rajesh, Saanvi Iyer, Inchara CU, Reethu Gowda, Saloni P, Tanushree M, Prathyoosha Kumar, Anagha Murali, Bhakti Shetty, Harshitha R, Karnika Karthick, Laxmi Bagewadi, Nirmitha CJ, Shreya Mishra, Zoya Khaz
Players to watch out:
BG Tejashwini
BG Tejashwini is an Indian cricketer known as a top-order batter and medium pace bowler. She began playing cricket at a young age and has represented state-level teams, steadily building her career. Tejashwini balances her cricketing pursuits with her education and has been part of competitive tournament circuits that highlight her all-round skills. In her recent outing against Mysore, she picked up bowling figures of 4 for 4 in just 2.5 overs. She will be a key player for her side going forward.
Priya Chavan
Priya Chavan is a domestic cricketer who has played primarily as a right-arm fast bowler. She was exceptional in the first encounter against Shivamogga where she picked up best bowling figures of 4 for 27 which dismantled the opposition batting lineup. She also picked up a three-wicket haul against Mysore and was phenomenal alongside Tejashwini in rattling down the Mysore batting line-up and also stands as the bowler with most wickets in the tournament as of now.
Reethu Gowda
Reethu Gowda is an Indian cricket player known primarily as a right-handed all-rounder specializing in right-arm off-break bowling. She plays for teams like Mangalore Dragons Women and has been recognized for her consistent performances as a bowler who can also contribute with the bat. In the opening encounter of Mangaluru, she picked best bowling figures of 3 for 17 and was impressive with the ball. She is considered a valuable player particularly for her off-spin bowling skill in women’s domestic cricket circuits.
Karnika Karthick
Karnika Karthick is a young and promising Indian cricketer who has also featured for the Karnataka Under-19 Women’s Cricket Team in the Women’s One Day Trophy 2024-25. In the opening encounter, she was impressive with both bat and ball proving her worth in both the departments of the game. She scored unbeaten 32 off 17 and picked a wicket as well with the ball. She was also awarded the Player of the Match award and is one of the young exciting talents to watch out for in the tournament ahead.
Pitch:
The KSCA Cricket Ground in Alur, features a pitch that is generally batting-friendly with good bounce and a grassy outfield. It supports both batters and bowlers, offering some assistance to pacers and spinners alike. The surface is well-suited for short-format games, favoring batters scoring runs comfortably.
Weather:
The weather at Alur KSCA Stadium is expected to be mostly cloudy with showers likely in the afternoon. The forecast suggests periodic rain, so expect wet conditions later in the day. This aligns with a pattern of variable cloud cover and occasional rain over the next several days.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Krishika Reddy, Nandani Chauhan, Pooja Dhananjaya, BG Tejashwini, Priya Chavan, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Liyanka Shetty, Reethu Gowda, Prathyoosha Kumar, Harshitha R, Karnika Karthick
Match Details:
Date – August 6, 2025
Time – 9:45 AM IST
Venue – KSCA Cricket Ground, Alur
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
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