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The Nepal Premier League 2024 has reached a critical juncture as the Biratnagar Kings take on the Chitwan Rhinos in their final league-stage match at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. Scheduled for 12 December at 2:30 PM IST, this game carries significant stakes, especially for the Rhinos, who must secure a win to stay alive in the tournament and ensure a playoff berth. Meanwhile, the Kings, who have been out of playoff contention, will be eager to play the role of spoilers.
Teams Preview
Biratnagar Kings Preview
The Biratnagar Kings have displayed resilience with the ball but continue to struggle with their batting. They tied their previous match against Pokhara Avengers while defending a modest 139 but eventually lost in the super over.
Pratish GC and Chris Sole have been standout performers in the bowling department. Basir Ahamad adds another layer of control and wicket-taking ability, making the Kings a bowling-heavy side. Skipper Sandeep Lamichhane, though an international star, will look to elevate his impact in this crucial game.
Batting remains a concern, with the top-order failing to fire consistently. Martin Guptill and Scott Edwards need to lead from the front and set a solid foundation. Nicholas Kirton, who has shown glimpses of form, will also be crucial in stabilizing the innings. Basir Ahamad, known for his late-order hitting, can provide much-needed fireworks at the death.
Key Players:
- Pratish GC (Bowler)
- Martin Guptill (Batsman)
- Sandeep Lamichhane (Bowler)
Predicted Playing XI:
Lokesh Bam, Martin Guptill, Naren Bhatta, Scott Edwards (wk), Nicholas Kirton, Basir Ahamad, Chris Sole, Dipak Bohara, Pratish GC, Sandeep Lamichhane (c), Anil Kharel
Chitwan Rhinos Preview
The Chitwan Rhinos come into this game under pressure, having lost their previous match while chasing a challenging 168-run target. The team has struggled with batting consistency, often relying on a few in-form players like Ravi Bopara, whose rare failure in the last game exposed their over-dependence on him.
The top-order, including Bipin Rawal and Santosh Karki, has failed to provide stability, putting additional pressure on the middle order. Luc Benkenstein and skipper Kushal Malla must shoulder responsibility and deliver in this must-win encounter.
The Rhinos’ bowling attack, led by Sohail Tanvir, Rijan Dhakal, and Kushal Malla, has been reasonably effective. However, they need to avoid leaking runs in the middle overs, which has hurt them in crucial matches.
Key Players:
- Ravi Bopara (All-Rounder)
- Kushal Malla (All-Rounder)
- Sohail Tanvir (Bowler)
Predicted Playing XI:
Santosh Khatri, Hassan Eisakhil, Bipin Rawal (wk), Kushal Malla (c), Ravi Bopara, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Amar Routela, Rijan Dhakal, Ranjit Kumar, Deepak Bohara, Sohail Tanvir
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Kirtipur pitch offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. While the surface has supported bowlers in the past, recent games have shown a slight tilt toward batters when they settle in. Spinners are expected to get some assistance in the middle overs.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 135-140 runs
- Conditions: Balanced, but totals over 165 could prove match-winning
Weather Report
The weather in Kirtipur is expected to be clear with no chance of rain. Temperatures will hover around 19°C during the match, ensuring ideal conditions for cricket.
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Batsmen | Martin Guptill, Scott Edwards, Luc Benkenstein |
| All-Rounders | Kushal Malla, Ravi Bopara, Basir Ahamad |
| Wicketkeeper | Scott Edwards |
| Bowlers | Pratish GC, Chris Sole, Sohail Tanvir, Rijan Dhakal |
Match Prediction
The Chitwan Rhinos have a lot riding on this game and will be motivated to secure a win to stay alive in the tournament. Their dependency on Ravi Bopara is a concern, but their overall balance, especially in the bowling department, gives them a slight edge over the inconsistent Kings.
Prediction: Chitwan Rhinos to win.
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