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The Nepal Premier League has reached its halfway stage, with each team having only 3-4 league matches remaining. The top three teams have started to distance themselves in the points table, and both Janakpur Bolts and Sudurpaschim Royals are aiming to secure a spot in the knockouts.
The Janakpur Bolts have been in scintillating form, winning all four of their matches and sitting atop the table. On the other hand, the Sudurpaschim Royals, currently in second place, will look to close the gap and strengthen their chances of making it to the knockouts. This clash is crucial for both sides, as a win could bring them closer to the top spot.
Teams Preview
Janakpur Bolts Preview
The Janakpur Bolts have been in tremendous form this season, coming off a thrilling 1-run victory in their last match. Despite posting a modest total of 136/9, their bowlers, led by Harsh Thaker, produced a match-winning performance.
Thaker’s incredible spell of 5/23 proved decisive, with support from Lalit Rajbanshi (1/13) and Sher Malla (1/33). Their bowling attack has consistently delivered, derailing opposition batting line-ups.
In the batting department, skipper Anil Shah has been leading the charge, scoring 45 off 39 balls in the last game. Openers Lahiru Milantha and Aasif Sheikh will aim for a strong start, while James Neesham and Shubh Kansakar provide middle-order stability.
Key Players: Harsh Thaker, Anil Shah, Lalit Rajbanshi
Predicted Playing XI:
Anil Shah (c), Aasif Sheikh, Lahiru Milantha, Shubh Kansakar, James Neesham, Sher Malla, Lalit Rajbanshi, Kishore Mahato, Harsh Thaker, M. Mohsin, Hemant Dhami
Sudurpaschim Royals Preview
The Royals will be looking to bounce back from their defeat in the previous game, where they fell short in chasing 165. Ishan Pandey was their top scorer with 35 runs, while Saif Zaib and Scott Kuggeleijn chipped in with crucial contributions.
Their bowlers, led by Scott Kuggeleijn (2/29), restricted the opposition to 164/5. Brendan McMullen and Saif Zaib were economical and picked up key wickets. However, the Royals need their bowlers to strike more frequently and the batters to convert starts into substantial scores.
The team’s reliance on top-order players like Dipendra Singh Airee and Ishan Pandey remains a concern. They need middle-order players like Binod Bhandari and Dilpreet Bajwa to step up.
Key Players: Saif Zaib, Scott Kuggeleijn, Brendan McMullen
Predicted Playing XI:
Saif Zaib, Binod Bhandari, Brendan McMullen, Scott Kuggeleijn, Dipendra Singh Airee, Ishan Pandey, Dilpreet Bajwa, Abinash Bohra, Naresh Budaiar, Naren Soud, Aarif Sheikh
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Report
- Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
- The Kirtipur surface offers something for everyone. Batters enjoy good bounce and carry, while bowlers who hit the right areas can find assistance.
- Average Score: 160-170 runs.
- Toss Prediction: Teams winning the toss are likely to bat first to put pressure on the opposition with a solid total.
Weather Report
- Conditions: Bright and sunny with no chances of rain.
- Temperature: 8-19°C.
- Perfect conditions for a full 20-over contest.
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Batsmen | Anil Shah, Ishan Pandey, Brendan McMullen, Lahiru Milantha | JKB, SPR, SPR, JKB |
| All-Rounders | Saif Zaib, James Neesham, Dipendra Singh Airee | SPR, JKB, SPR |
| Bowlers | Lalit Rajbanshi, Harsh Thaker, Sher Malla | JKB, JKB, JKB |
Winning Prediction
Both teams have performed well this season, but Janakpur Bolts have been consistent and hold an edge with their all-round performances. Their bowling attack has the firepower to exploit Sudurpaschim Royals’ batting vulnerabilities.
Prediction: Janakpur Bolts to win.
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