The Bangladesh Premier League 2024-25 enters its critical phase as the Rangpur Riders aim to solidify their position at the top of the table, while the Khulna Tigers fight to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Riders are on a dream run, with six consecutive wins, while the Tigers face mounting pressure after two back-to-back losses. This promises to be an intense clash of form and resilience.
Match Details
Match | Rangpur Riders vs Khulna Tigers, Match 20 |
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Date | January 16, 2025 |
Time | 7:30 PM Local / 7:00 PM IST |
Venue | Sylhet International Cricket Stadium |
Teams Preview
Rangpur Riders
The Rangpur Riders have been the standout team this season, with skipper Nurul Hasan leading the charge. They edged out Fortune Barishal in a thrilling finish in their last game, demonstrating their ability to handle pressure. The team boasts a formidable top order with Alex Hales and Tawfique Khan, who have consistently provided strong starts.
In the middle order, Iftikhar Ahmed and Khushdil Shah add depth and firepower, with both players contributing match-winning knocks in the previous game. The lower middle order, comprising Mahedi Hasan and Nurul Hasan, ensures stability and quick runs when needed.
The bowling attack, led by Mahedi Hasan, has been sharp this season. While they faltered slightly in the last game, bowlers like Akif Javed and Nahid Rana have shown their mettle. Mohammad Saifuddin and Kamrul Islam Rabbi provide valuable experience and control in crunch moments.
Khulna Tigers
The Khulna Tigers face a must-win situation after two disappointing performances. Their skipper, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, needs to inspire his side, especially with the ball, where they’ve struggled to contain opposition batters. The batting unit, too, has been inconsistent, with the likes of Imrul Kayes and Darwish Rasooli failing to capitalize on starts.
William Bosisto and Mohammad Naim will look to provide a strong opening stand. The middle order, featuring Miraz, Mohammad Nawaz, and Mahidul Islam Ankon, needs to step up and deliver under pressure. Nawaz, with his all-round abilities, could play a pivotal role in this high-stakes encounter.
In the bowling department, Nasum Ahmed and Abu Hider Rony are key players, with Ahmed being particularly effective on spin-friendly tracks. Hasan Mahmud and Ziaur Rahman must also bring their A-game to challenge the formidable Riders’ batting lineup.
Team Squads
Rangpur Riders Predicted XI
Nurul Hasan (c & wk), Alex Hales, Tawfique Khan, Saif Hassan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Kamrul Islam, Nahid Rana, Akif Javed
Khulna Tigers Predicted XI
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), William Bosisto, Mohammad Naim, Darwish Rasooli, Mahidul Islam Ankon (wk), Imrul Kayes, Abu Hider Rony, Mohammad Nawaz, Ziaur Rahman, Nasum Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud
Fantasy Team XI
Player | Role |
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Alex Hales | Batter |
Tawfique Khan | Batter |
William Bosisto | Batter |
Mohammad Naim | Batter |
Iftikhar Ahmed | All-rounder |
Khushdil Shah | All-rounder |
Mahedi Hasan | All-rounder |
Mohammad Saifuddin | Bowler |
Nasum Ahmed | Bowler |
Akif Javed | Bowler |
Abu Hider Rony | Bowler |
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Report
The pitch at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium offers something for everyone. While the average first-innings score is around 156 runs, the slowness of the surface provides assistance to spinners and pacers who vary their lengths. Batsmen need to play patiently and build their innings to capitalize in the later overs.
Weather Conditions
The weather will be clear, with temperatures hovering around 24°C in the evening. No interruptions due to rain are expected, ensuring a full game.
Toss Prediction
With dew expected in the second innings, the team winning the toss will likely opt to bowl first. Chasing teams have had the advantage under lights at this venue.
Winning Prediction
The Rangpur Riders come into this game as strong favorites, given their unbeaten run and balanced squad. The Khulna Tigers have struggled with form and consistency, making this a tough challenge for them.
Prediction: Rangpur Riders to win
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