Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra set to face a tough challenge

Chandigarh Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra will face a tough challenge from Kerala and Andhra as the Elite Group C matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy begin here on Saturday. Madhya Pradesh, led by two-time IPL-winning captain Rajat Patidar, boasts one of the most balanced squads in the group. Bolstered by the presence of Avesh Khan, Kumar Kartikeya and Aniket Verma, the side has ample firepower to get past obstacles. Maharashtra has a good batting unit, featuring Prithvi Shaw, Rahul Tripathi and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is expected to join after his international duties.

With Mukesh Choudhary spearheading its pace attack, the team will look to justify its tag as one of the group favourites. Kerala and Andhra can beat any side on their day. Kerala, boosted by the return of Sanju Samson, will rely on its explosive batting line-up also comprising Rohan S. Kunnummal, Vishnu Vinod, Salman Nizar and Mohammed Azharuddeen.

It, however, needs its bowlers to step up against top-tier rivals. Andhra will be looking to replicate its performance from last season when it narrowly missed the final.