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We have entered the most critical phase of the Nepal Premier League 2024, with teams battling hard for a place in the knockouts. In the 19th game of the league, the Kathmandu Gurkhas will face off against the Lumbini Lions at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.
The Lumbini Lions come into this game sitting at the bottom of the points table with only one win in five matches. A big victory is needed for them to keep their hopes alive for the next stage. On the other hand, the Kathmandu Gurkhas, with just one win in the tournament so far, are also under pressure to improve their position. This match is a do-or-die situation for both sides, promising a thrilling contest.
Teams Preview
Kathmandu Gurkhas Preview
The Kathmandu Gurkhas are coming off a disappointing loss against the Sudur Paschim Royals, where they managed only 94 runs and lost by 73 runs. Skipper Karan KC will demand a better performance, especially from the batting lineup.
Openers Michael Levitt and Shankar Rana need to provide a strong start after their failure in the previous game. The middle order, consisting of Stephen Eskinazi, Bhim Sharki, and Gerhard Erasmus, has the capability to anchor the innings, and much will depend on their ability to build partnerships. Rashid Khan and Sumit Maharjan add depth to the batting order.
In the bowling department, Rashid Khan remains the key weapon with his ability to take wickets and bowl economically. Karan KC and Nathan Sowter will play supporting roles, aiming to exploit the Lions’ fragile top order.
Key Players: Rashid Khan, Stephen Eskinazi, Karan KC
Predicted Playing XI:
Karan KC (c), Michael Levitt, Shankar Rana, Stephen Eskinazi (wk), Bhim Sharki, Gerhard Erasmus, Sumit Maharjan, Rashid Khan, Pratik Shrestha, Nathan Sowter, Shahab Alam
Lumbini Lions Preview
The Lumbini Lions secured their first victory in the tournament with an impressive 33-run win against the Chitwan Rhinos. Skipper Rohit Paudel’s 81-run knock was the highlight of the match, and he will look to lead from the front once again.
The opening duo of Aashutosh Ghiraiya and Arjun Saud has been inconsistent and must deliver a solid start. Unmukt Chand and Tom Moores will provide stability in the middle order, while Saad Bin Zafar and Sundeep Jora add firepower in the lower order.
On the bowling front, the Lions’ attack finally found rhythm in the last game. Ramon Simmonds and Paudel were exceptional with the new ball, while Saad Bin Zafar controlled the middle overs with his experience. However, the side still needs more consistency from Bibek Yadav and Sundeep Jora.
Key Players: Rohit Paudel, Saad Bin Zafar, Ramon Simmonds
Predicted Playing XI:
Rohit Paudel (c), Aashutosh Ghiraiya, Arjun Saud (wk), Unmukt Chand, Tom Moores, Saad Bin Zafar, Sundeep Jora, Bibek Yadav, Durgesh Gupta, Ramon Simmonds, Abhishesh Gautam
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Report
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground is a balanced venue where batsmen and bowlers both get opportunities. The surface offers good bounce, helping the fast bowlers, while spinners come into play as the pitch wears down.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 138 runs
- Strategy: Teams batting first have had success recently, and a total of around 160 runs could prove to be competitive.
Weather Report
- Conditions: Clear skies with no rain expected.
- Temperature: 8°C – 19°C
- Impact: The cool conditions and a slow pitch will require batters to play cautiously in the early overs.
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Batsmen | Stephen Eskinazi, Bhim Sharki, Unmukt Chand | KMG, KMG, LBL |
| All-Rounders | Gerhard Erasmus, Saad Bin Zafar, Karan KC | KMG, LBL, KMG |
| Wicketkeeper | Tom Moores | Lumbini Lions |
| Bowlers | Ramon Simmonds, Shahab Alam, Nathan Sowter | LBL, KMG, KMG |
Winning Prediction
Both teams are under pressure, but the Lumbini Lions come into this game with a confidence-boosting win. Their batting showed promise in the last game, and the bowlers delivered crucial breakthroughs. The Kathmandu Gurkhas have struggled to find rhythm, especially in their batting. While Rashid Khan will pose a significant challenge for the Lions, the Lions’ balanced performance in the last game gives them an edge.
Prediction: Lumbini Lions to win.
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