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As the Bangladesh Premier League 2024-25 heads towards the business end, every match becomes crucial in the race to the playoffs. Sylhet Strikers have hit a rough patch, suffering four consecutive defeats, and they are in desperate need of a turnaround to keep their playoff hopes alive. Fortune Barishal, on the other hand, are sitting comfortably at second place and are aiming for a top-two finish, which would give them a direct route to the final.
This clash promises to be intense, with Sylhet looking for redemption and Barishal aiming to consolidate their position at the top.
Match Details
| Fixture | Fortune Barishal vs Sylhet Strikers |
|---|---|
| Date | January 26, 2024 |
| Time | 6:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka |
Teams Preview
Fortune Barishal Preview
Fortune Barishal have been one of the most consistent teams this season, with a strong batting lineup and a reliable bowling unit. They successfully defended 167 runs in their last match, securing a 6-run victory.
Mahmudullah was the standout performer with a crucial 50 off 45 balls, holding the innings together even as wickets fell around him. The lower order also played a key role, with Rishad Hossain (39 off 19), Jahanand Khan (11 off 5), and Tanvir Islam (12 off 6) chipping in with valuable runs to push the total beyond 160.
With the ball, the Barishal bowlers delivered a clinical performance. Jahanand Khan (2/20) led the attack, while Mohammad Nabi (1/19) and Rishad Hossain (1/17) provided key breakthroughs to keep the opposition in check.
With a well-balanced squad and strong performances from both the top and middle order, Barishal look poised to continue their dominance in the tournament.
Key Players:
Rishad Hossain – Contributing with both bat and ball.
Towhid Hridoy – A consistent top-order batter.
Mohammad Nabi – The experienced all-rounder brings balance to the team.
Dawid Malan – A dependable top-order batsman.
Predicted Playing XI:
Tamim Iqbal, Towhid Hridoy, Dawid Malan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Mohammad Nabi, Faheem Ashraf, Ripon Mondol, Tanvir Islam, Jahanand Khan, Rishad Hossain
Sylhet Strikers Preview
Sylhet Strikers have struggled to finish games despite having promising starts, and their four-match losing streak has put them in a difficult position.
In their last match, they posted 152/8, which proved to be below par. George Munsey (58 off 32) and Zakir Hasan (44 off 32) gave the team a solid start, but the middle order failed to capitalize. The inability to build on good starts has been a major concern for Sylhet this season.
With the ball, Nihaduzzuman (2/25) was the standout performer, while Sumon Khan (1/29) and Samiullah Shinwari (1/15) contributed with wickets. However, their bowling attack has lacked consistency, allowing opponents to chase down targets comfortably.
To turn things around, Sylhet must find more firepower in the middle order and deliver a collective effort with the ball.
Key Players:
Nihaduzzuman – Leading the bowling attack.
George Munsey – A hard-hitting opener who can change the game.
Samiullah Shinwari – Provides depth with both bat and ball.
Predicted Playing XI:
George Munsey, Rony Talukdar, Zakir Hasan, K Alleyne, Jaker Ali, Ariful Haque, Samiullah Shinwari, Nihaduzzuman, Sumon Khan, Ruyel Miah, Reece Topley
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Mahmudullah |
| Vice-Captain | George Munsey |
| Batsmen | Towhid Hridoy, Dawid Malan, Zakir Hasan, Tamim Iqbal |
| All-rounders | Mohammad Nabi, Samiullah Shinwari |
| Wicketkeeper | Mushfiqur Rahim |
| Bowlers | Jahanand Khan, Rishad Hossain, Nihaduzzuman, Sumon Khan |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka is known for its balanced conditions, offering something for both batters and bowlers.
The new ball tends to swing, making the first few overs challenging for batters. However, as the game progresses, the pitch eases out, making stroke play easier. Spinners are expected to come into play, as the surface tends to slow down in the second innings.
A first-innings total of 160+ will be highly competitive on this surface.
Weather Conditions
The weather is expected to be clear and sunny, ensuring a full 40-over game with no rain interruptions. The temperature will be around 22°C, providing ideal playing conditions.
Toss Prediction
Teams have found success by batting first on this surface. With spin expected to play a role in the second innings, the captain winning the toss will likely opt to bat first and put runs on the board.
Winning Prediction
Sylhet Strikers have shown glimpses of good performances, but their lack of middle-order stability and inconsistent bowling attack have cost them games. Fortune Barishal, on the other hand, have been a more complete unit, with strong batting depth and disciplined bowling.
Given their recent form and squad strength, Barishal enter this match as clear favorites.
Prediction: Fortune Barishal to win this match.
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