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The Nepal Premier League continues with the Karnali Yaks squaring off against the Kathmandu Gurkhas. Both teams are eager to secure their first win of the season after opening-game losses. With key players on both sides and the balanced conditions at Kirtipur, this promises to be a thrilling contest.
Match Details
- Event: Nepal Premier League 2024 – Match 5
- Teams: Karnali Yaks vs Kathmandu Gurkhas
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- Date & Time: Wednesday, 10:30 AM Local
Team Previews
Karnali Yaks Preview
The Karnali Yaks had a rough outing in their first match, succumbing to an 8-wicket defeat against Janakpur Bolts. While their batting lineup showed flashes of promise, the inability to build partnerships hurt them. Gulsan Jha (36 off 27) and Arjun Gharti (33 off 22) provided late-order resistance, but the team only managed 141-7, which the Bolts chased down with ease.
Key Players:
- Shikhar Dhawan: The seasoned batter has a chance to anchor the innings and lead from the front.
- Babar Hayat: Known for his explosiveness, Hayat can single-handedly turn games.
- Zeeshan Maqsood: With his all-around abilities, he remains vital to the team’s plans.
Bowling Department:
The Yaks need more consistency from Nandan Yadav, Sompal Kami, and Mousom Dhakal, while spinners Bhuvan Karki and Maqsood will play crucial roles on this surface.
Predicted Playing XI:
Dev Khanal, Shikhar Dhawan, Chadwick Walton (wk), Arjun Gharti, Babar Hayat, Sompal Kami (c), Gulshan Jha, Zeeshan Maqsood, Mousom Dhakal, Bhuvan Karki, Nandan Yadav
Kathmandu Gurkhas Preview
The Gurkhas also faltered in their opener, falling to a 5-wicket loss against Chitwan Rhinos. Their batting was underwhelming, posting only 111-9, with Sumit Maharjan (29 off 41) top-scoring.
Key Players:
- Stephen Eskinazi: A dependable opener who can set the tone early.
- Michael Levitt: The all-rounder adds depth to both the batting and bowling.
- Bhim Sharki: A consistent performer for Nepal who can provide stability in the middle order.
Bowling Department:
Kathmandu’s bowling attack looks more settled, with Karan KC, Shahab Alam, and Dan Douthwaite capable of troubling any batting lineup.
Predicted Playing XI:
Bhim Sharki, Stephen Eskinazi (wk), Sumit Maharjan, Gerhard Erasmus, Shankar Rana, Rashid Khan, Dan Douthwaite, Karan KC (c), Shahab Alam, Dipesh Kandel, Michael Levitt
Dream11 Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Batsmen | Shikhar Dhawan, Sumit Maharjan, Gulsan Jha |
| All-rounders | Zeeshan Maqsood, Michael Levitt, Karan KC |
| Bowlers | Shahab Alam, Mousom Dhakal, Dan Douthwaite, Bhuvan Karki |
| Wicketkeeper | Chadwick Walton |
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Report
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground offers a balanced wicket. Pacers get movement early, while spinners dominate as the pitch slows down. Batters need to settle in before going for big shots.
- Average First-Innings Score: 154
- Chasing Record: Teams chasing have won all three matches in this tournament.
Toss Prediction: Teams will likely bowl first, considering the recent trend of successful chases.
Weather Report
- Conditions: Sunny skies with no rain expected.
- Temperature: 20°C to 25°C
- Humidity: Moderate at around 50%
Winning Prediction
Both teams have their strengths, but the Karnali Yaks’ batting lineup looks slightly more robust. With experienced campaigners like Shikhar Dhawan and Babar Hayat, the Yaks have the edge to outplay the Gurkhas and register their first win of the season.
Prediction: Karnali Yaks to win
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