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The league stage of the Nepal Premier League 2024 has concluded, and now the playoffs have arrived with high stakes. In the Eliminator match, Chitwan Rhinos will take on Karnali Yaks as both teams aim to secure a place in the next round.
The Chitwan Rhinos come into this game with momentum, having registered a convincing 32-run win against the Janakpur Bolts. On the other hand, Karnali Yaks are reeling from a 6-wicket loss against Sudur Paschim Royals but will look to bounce back strongly. Both teams have enjoyed decent campaigns and are well-matched, but the Yaks’ recent dominance – winning four of their last five matches – gives them a slight edge.
With a knockout format in play, we expect a high-intensity clash as both sides aim to extend their tournament journey.
Teams Preview
Chitwan Rhinos Preview
The Chitwan Rhinos came back to form with a much-needed victory over the Janakpur Bolts, where captain Kushal Malla led from the front. Malla’s blistering innings of 72 runs off 41 balls helped the team post a competitive total, which their bowlers defended successfully.
Batting Strengths:
- Kushal Malla will look to continue his exceptional form, anchoring the middle order.
- Hassan Eisakhil and Bipin Rawal provide firepower at the top and will aim to deliver a strong start.
- Experienced campaigners like Ravi Bopara and Basil Hameed will play crucial roles in ensuring stability in the middle order, while Sohail Tanvir offers finishing prowess.
Bowling Concerns:
The Rhinos’ bowlers will need to be disciplined, especially against the Yaks’ strong batting unit. Sohail Tanvir and Rijan Dhakal impressed in the last game, picking up two wickets each. Skipper Kushal Malla has also contributed with the ball, and his all-round skills will be pivotal.
Chitwan Rhinos Predicted Playing XI:
Kushal Malla (c), Hassan Eisakhil, Bipin Rawal (wk), Santosh Karki, Ravi Bopara, Basil Hameed, Sohail Tanvir, Amar Routela, Deepak Bohara, Rijan Dhakal, Ranjit Kumar
Karnali Yaks Preview
The Karnali Yaks had a rare stumble in their last match against Sudur Paschim Royals but remain a formidable unit. Skipper Sompal Kami will look to rally his troops as they aim to bounce back strongly and book a place in the next round.
Batting Strengths:
- Babar Hayat and Rit Gautam form a reliable opening pair and will aim to set the platform for the middle order.
- Chadwick Walton, the key player in the lineup, has the experience to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.
- Contributions from William Bosisto, Dev Khanal, and Zeeshan Maqsood will be vital for posting or chasing a competitive score.
Bowling Edge:
The Yaks possess a balanced bowling attack, with Sompal Kami leading from the front. Bipin Sharma and Nandan Yadav have been consistent with their performances. Zeeshan Maqsood will play a key role with his spin, supported by Bosisto’s ability to chip in with crucial overs.
Karnali Yaks Predicted Playing XI:
Sompal Kami (c), Rit Gautam, Babar Hayat, Chadwick Walton (wk), Dev Khanal, William Bosisto, Zeeshan Maqsood, Gulsan Jha, Arjun Gharti, Nandan Yadav, Bipin Sharma
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report:
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur offers a balanced surface, with early assistance for fast bowlers and ample opportunities for batters who settle in. Spinners will come into play as the game progresses due to the slowness of the pitch. The average first-innings score is 149 runs, and a score above 170 will be competitive.
- Best Strategy: Bowl first, as chasing has proven advantageous.
Weather Conditions:
The weather in Kirtipur is expected to remain clear throughout the match, with temperatures ranging between 9-21°C. The conditions will be perfect for cricket with no chance of rain interruptions.
Fantasy Team XI Prediction
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Kushal Malla |
| Vice-Captain | Zeeshan Maqsood |
| Batsmen | Chadwick Walton, Babar Hayat, Ravi Bopara |
| All-rounders | Kushal Malla, Sompal Kami, Gulsan Jha |
| Wicketkeeper | Bipin Rawal |
| Bowlers | Sohail Tanvir, Rijan Dhakal, Nandan Yadav, Bipin Sharma |
Match Prediction
Both teams have their strengths, but Karnali Yaks enter this game with better form and momentum, having won four of their last five matches. With a strong batting lineup and consistent bowling, the Yaks are slightly ahead of the Chitwan Rhinos.
Prediction: Karnali Yaks Will Win
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