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The fifth edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament is set to commence in Hubballi this Saturday, featuring six franchises eager to earn crucial points in the tournament's second phase. The action starts with a double-header at the KSCA Stadium Rajnagar, where the Shivamogga Yodhas will face off against the Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters at 2:30 PM, followed by the Mysore Warriors taking on the Gulbarga Mystics at 7 PM.

Smaran R, captain of the Shivamogga Yodhas, expressed enthusiasm as his team currently holds the fourth position on the points table with four points from two wins in Mysuru. He stated, "We are eagerly anticipating the next leg of the tournament, and the team's morale is high. We've had several positives in the Mysore leg, with both victories coming by significant margins. Consistency is key in long tournaments, and we feel optimistic about our chances."

Shubhang Hegde, the leading wicket-taker of the tournament with seven wickets, leads the Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters, who are at the top of the points table with six points from four matches. He remarked, "Our tournament has started well, with contributions from all players. While we are pleased to lead the points table, we recognize that there is still a long way to go. As captain, I feel a heightened sense of responsibility, and I'm glad to contribute both with bat and ball."

The Gulbarga Mystics enter the Hubballi leg in third place, having secured four points from four matches. Allrounder MacNeil Noronha commented, "After a tough start, we've rebounded with two strong victories. It's encouraging to head into the next phase with points already on the board. The team's confidence has increased, and we are ready for the upcoming challenges."

Chethan LR, the tournament's Orange Cap holder with 192 runs, including a century and a half-century, plays for the Mysore Warriors, who are currently sixth on the points table with two points. He shared, "I'm happy to have found my form early in the tournament and hope to contribute more to our success. Playing at my home ground was a fantastic experience, and the crowd support was amazing. Our focus is on our strengths while also addressing areas for improvement as we look forward to the Hubballi leg."

The Coastal Kings Mangaluru, in second place, aim to maintain their momentum after gathering five points from their first four matches. Meanwhile, the Hubli Tigers, positioned fifth with three points, will strive to improve their standing during the Hubballi leg.