The Nuwara Eliya Kings (NEK) will take on the Colombo Jaguars (CJ) in the second match of the Lanka T10 Super League 2024 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, on Wednesday, December 13. Both teams will look to make a strong start in the tournament. While Nuwara Eliya Kings boast an explosive batting lineup led by Kyle Mayers, Colombo Jaguars have a well-rounded side, although key players are unavailable due to international duty.
Teams Preview
Nuwara Eliya Kings Preview
The Nuwara Eliya Kings will rely on their experienced top order and all-rounders to set the tone. Kyle Mayers, an explosive opener and captain, will be key to their success, alongside Avishka Fernando and Danushka Gunathilaka. The middle order will feature the dependable Saurabh Tiwary and the hard-hitting Bhanuka Rajapaksa.
Their bowling attack is diverse, with pacers Oshane Thomas and Kasun Rajitha expected to make early inroads. All-rounders Chamika Karunaratne and Benny Howell will provide depth, while Aftab Alam will play a vital role in the middle overs.
Key Players: Kyle Mayers, Avishka Fernando, Oshane Thomas
Predicted Playing XI:
Kyle Mayers (c), Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), Avishka Fernando, Saurabh Tiwary, Danushka Gunathilaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Madushanka, Benny Howell, Oshane Thomas, Aftab Alam, Kasun Rajitha.
Colombo Jaguars Preview
The Colombo Jaguars face an early setback with key players Angelo Matthews and Kamindu Mendis unavailable. They will rely on power-hitters like Azam Khan and Asif Ali to anchor their innings, while Najibullah Zadran and captain Angelo Perera will aim to provide stability.
Their bowling unit is formidable, featuring young pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana and the experienced duo of Tymal Mills and Akila Dananjaya. These bowlers will need to perform consistently to restrict the strong NEK batting lineup.
Key Players: Azam Khan, Matheesha Pathirana, Tymal Mills
Predicted Playing XI:
Angelo Perera (c), Azam Khan, Asif Ali, Jewel Andrew (wk), Najibullah Zadran, Aamer Jamal, Ramesh Mendis, Matheesha Pathirana, Akila Dananjaya, Tymal Mills, Dilshan Madushanka.
Pitch Report
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is a high-scoring venue where batters can exploit the even bounce and fast outfield. Bowlers, especially spinners, may find some assistance in the middle overs, but pacers will need to rely on variations to contain the runs.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 160-170 (in T10 matches)
- Chasing Record: Teams batting second have won 5 out of 9 matches since 2019.
Weather Report
- Conditions: Cloudy skies expected in the evening.
- Temperature: 22°C to 26°C
- Rain Probability: Low (10%)
- Wind Speed: 1-2 km/h
Fantasy XI Prediction
Position | Player | Team |
---|---|---|
Captain | Kyle Mayers | NEK |
Vice-Captain | Azam Khan | CJ |
Wicket-Keepers | Bhanuka Rajapaksa | NEK |
Batters | Avishka Fernando, | NEK |
Najibullah Zadran | CJ | |
Saurabh Tiwary | NEK | |
All-Rounders | Chamika Karunaratne | NEK |
Benny Howell | NEK | |
Aamer Jamal | CJ | |
Bowlers | Matheesha Pathirana | CJ |
Oshane Thomas | NEK |
Toss Prediction
- Preferred Option: To Bowl First
Teams chasing have had better success at Pallekele. Both captains are likely to opt to field first, leveraging any early assistance for the bowlers.
Match Prediction
With their explosive batting lineup and experienced all-rounders, Nuwara Eliya Kings hold the edge over Colombo Jaguars. While Jaguars have a strong bowling unit, the absence of Angelo Matthews and Kamindu Mendis weakens their batting depth.
Prediction: Nuwara Eliya Kings to win.
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