KNTKA vs MUM Dream11 Prediction: 1st Quarter Final Fantasy Cricket Tips for Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026

The group stages are done and dusted, and now it is time for the business end of the tournament. We are kicking off the knockouts with a heavyweight clash as Karnataka takes on Mumbai in the 1st Quarter Final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026. Both teams have a rich history in domestic cricket, and with a spot in the semi finals on the line, expect nothing less than a high voltage game at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Match Details

• Match: Karnataka vs Mumbai (1st Quarter Final)
• Series: Vijay Hazare Trophy
• Date: 12 Jan 2026
• Time: 09:00 AM IST
• Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru

Pitch Report: Bowlers to Dominate?

Unlike the traditional batting paradises often seen in Bengaluru, the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 has been tricky for batters recently. The average score in the last 5 matches is just 214 runs, which suggests that simply loading up on top order batters might not be the best strategy for your fantasy contests.

Pace vs Spin: The stats clearly favor the faster bowlers here. Pacers have picked up 42 wickets compared to 27 by spinners in the last five games. With a 9:00 AM start, the morning moisture might aid the seamers early on. Batters will need to apply themselves technically to score big.

Weather Forecast

Bengaluru in January is perfect for cricket. Expect a cool morning with temperatures around 18°C, rising to a pleasant 26°C by the afternoon. The humidity will be moderate, and there is no chance of rain interrupting this knockout game. The morning conditions might offer some swing, making the first hour crucial.

Karnataka (KNTKA) Team Analysis

Karnataka comes into this quarter final with a strong batting lineup led by the unstoppable Devdutt Padikkal. He has been in alien form, smashing 640 runs in the series with a massive average of 193.3. If Karnataka is to post a big total, his wicket is the one Mumbai needs early.

Mayank Agarwal has also been solid, accumulating 399 runs, providing stability at the top. In the bowling department, Prasidh Krishna will enjoy this surface. His height and bounce on a pitch that assists pacers make him a lethal option. Shreyas Gopal remains a wicket taking option in the middle overs, having picked up 12 wickets in the series.

Mumbai (MUM) Team Analysis

Mumbai has had a rollercoaster season but they know how to win big matches. Their standout performer has been Musheer Khan. He is a complete package for fantasy managers, scoring 236 runs and picking up 10 wickets. His ability to contribute in both innings makes him a top captaincy candidate.

Sarfaraz Khan has been consistent with the bat (303 runs), and the experience of Shardul Thakur (11 wickets) will be vital in this pressure game. Shardul is a genuine wicket taker who often breaks partnerships when the team needs it most. Watch out for Shams Mulani as well; his left arm spin and lower order batting add great balance to the side.

Key Players to Watch

• Devdutt Padikkal: You simply cannot ignore him. He is the leading run scorer and has been scoring centuries for fun. A must have in your Mega Leagues.
• Musheer Khan: The MVP for Mumbai. He gives you points with the bat and the ball. High fantasy value.
• Mayank Agarwal: A reliable opener who scores at a good clip. Good for head to-head contests.
• Shardul Thakur: With the pitch favoring pacers, Shardul's knack for picking wickets makes him a crucial pick.
• Prasidh Krishna: A serious threat with the new ball. If Karnataka bowls first, he could run through the top order.

Captaincy & Vice Captaincy Strategy

• Safe Captain: Devdutt Padikkal (Form is temporary, but his current run is permanent class).
• All Rounder Choice: Musheer Khan (Safe bet due to dual role).
• Differential Vice Captain: Shardul Thakur (If Mumbai bowls first) or Mayank Agarwal.

Final Strategy Tips

Since this is a knockout game, teams might play cautiously at the start. Avoid picking openers who are out of form. Focus on bowlers who bowl in the death overs, as wickets tend to fall in clusters towards the end of the innings. With the pitch favoring pacers, a 3-4 pacer combination in your fantasy team could be the winning formula to climb the leaderboard.