Defending champions NECO Master Blaster ready to begin VPL 2026 campaign with balanced squad and fearless approach
Nagpur, June 1
Defending champions NECO Master Blaster are set to begin their Vidarbha Premier League 2026 campaign with confidence and momentum as they prepare to take on Pagariya Strikers in the opening match of the tournament on June 1 at the VCA Stadium, Jamtha.
After lifting the title in the inaugural edition, NECO Master Blaster enter the second season with a strong blend of experienced performers and exciting young talent. Led by wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, the team will look to build on last year's success and continue playing the fearless brand of cricket that helped them emerge as champions, according to a press release.
The squad boasts a balanced combination of batting depth, all-round options and a versatile bowling attack. Alongside captain Jitesh Sharma, players such as Harsh Dubey, Adhyayan Daga, Aryan Meshram, Shanmesh Deshmukh and Ananmay Jayaswal are expected to play key roles throughout the tournament.
Mentor Abhishek Chourasia believes the team's balance and positive dressing-room environment remain its biggest strengths heading into the new season. The franchise has focused on creating a pressure-free atmosphere where players can express themselves and enjoy their cricket while maintaining a winning mindset.
NECO Master Blaster will open their campaign against Pagariya Strikers before taking on Bharat Rangers (June 4), Orange Tigers (June 5), India Warriors (June 6) and Nagpur Heroz (June 8) in the league stage. With every team eager to dethrone the defending champions, NECO Master Blaster will be aiming to make an early statement and continue their winning momentum.
Adding to the excitement ahead of VPL 2026, NECO Master Blaster recently unveiled their new jersey along with a power-packed team anthem, in the presence of Prashant Vaidya, Chairman of the Vidarbha Premier League, who extended his best wishes to the players for the upcoming campaign.
The team will also take the field this season under its inspiring tagline, 'Jazba Jeet Ka', embodying the hunger, determination and belief that drives the defending champions.
With a title-winning core, talented youngsters and a fearless approach, NECO Master Blaster will once again be among the teams to watch as VPL 2026 gets underway.
Squad
NECO Master Blaster (Men): Jitesh Sharma (Captain), Adhyayan Daga, Aryan Meshram, Shanmesh Deshmukh, Ananmay Jayaswal, Vedant Dighade, Vaibhav Chandekar, Abhishek Gupta, Shantanu Rajput, Dipesh Parwani, Harsh Dubey, Avinash Jadhav, Arya Durugkar, Gaurav Dhoble, Gaurav Farde, Kush Khandelwal.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great to see local tournaments like VPL getting so much attention. The balance of experienced players like Jitesh and young talents like Harsh Dubey is perfect. Hope they can defend the title! 🙌
Nice to see cricket growing in Vidarbha. The team anthem and jersey launch sound exciting. But I hope they focus on consistent performance rather than just hype. 🙏
Defending champions always have a target on their back. But with Jitesh Sharma leading, they have a cool head. The squad depth is impressive—especially the all-round options. Let's go NECO! 💪
'Jazba Jeet Ka' is a great tagline. The team's fearless approach worked last year, but they need to be careful—other teams will be more prepared this time. Looking forward to good cricket! 🏏
Great to see local leagues thriving in India! The mix of youth and experience is key. Wishing NECO Master Blaster all the best for the tournament. 🇮🇳
It's wonderful that players like Prashant Vaidya are supporting the league. The squad looks well-balanced—hoping for some exciting matches at
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