The inaugural Nepal Premier League has been a cricketing spectacle, delivering thrilling contests and standout performances. The tournament now culminates with a high-stakes final on Saturday, where the dominant Sudurpaschim Royals will lock horns with the determined Janakpur Bolts at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur.
Having comprehensively beaten the Bolts in Qualifier 1, the Royals enter the final as clear favorites. Meanwhile, the Bolts, fresh off a gritty win in Qualifier 2, will need a monumental effort to dethrone the Royals and claim the title.
Match Details
Fixture | Sudurpaschim Royals vs Janakpur Bolts |
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Date | Saturday, December 21, 2024 |
Time | 1:30 PM Local / 1:15 PM IST |
Venue | Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur |
Teams Preview
Sudurpaschim Royals Preview
The Royals have been a dominant force throughout the tournament, and their commanding 8-wicket win in Qualifier 1 against the Bolts further solidifies their status as favorites.
Batting Strength:
The experienced Binod Bhandari has been a standout performer, with his composed 58 not out in the Qualifier proving crucial. Saif Zaib and Brandon McMullen provide stability at the top, while the middle order, led by skipper Dipendra Singh Airee, ensures depth and firepower.
Bowling Firepower:
The Royals boast a formidable bowling attack. Airee’s 3/29 in the Qualifier was instrumental, and Scott Kuggeleijn and Abinash Bohara provide further potency. Zaib’s versatility with the ball adds an extra dimension.
Key Players: Binod Bhandari, Dipendra Singh Airee, Saif Zaib
Sudurpaschim Royals Predicted Playing XI:
Player | Role |
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Saif Zaib | Batter |
Binod Bhandari (wk) | Batter |
Brandon McMullen | Batter |
Dipendra Singh Airee (c) | All-rounder |
Ishan Pandey | Batter |
Aarif Sheikh | Batter |
Harmeet Singh | All-rounder |
Scott Kuggeleijn | Bowler |
Naresh Budayair | Bowler |
Naren Saud | Bowler |
Abinash Bohara | Bowler |
Janakpur Bolts Preview
The Bolts displayed remarkable resilience in Qualifier 2, overcoming early setbacks to secure a tense 1-wicket win. However, they face a daunting task against a well-rounded Royals outfit.
Batting Concerns:
The top order has struggled, with Aasif Sheikh and Lahiru Milantha failing to capitalize on starts. Fortunately, James Neesham showcased his brilliance under pressure, smashing a match-winning 45 off 17 balls. The Bolts need collective contributions to pose a challenge.
Bowling Hope:
The Bolts’ bowling has been their saving grace. Lalit Rajbanshi’s consistency (2/22 in Qualifier 2) and Mohammad Mohsin’s economical spells will be crucial. Neesham’s all-round capabilities also add balance.
Key Players: James Neesham, Lalit Rajbanshi, Mohammad Mohsin
Janakpur Bolts Predicted Playing XI:
Player | Role |
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Shubh Kansakar | Batter |
Aasif Sheikh (c) | Batter |
Lahiru Milantha (wk) | Batter |
Aakash Tripathi | Batter |
Harsh Thaker | All-rounder |
James Neesham | All-rounder |
Mayan Yadav | All-rounder |
Mohammad Mohsin | Bowler |
Sher Malla | Bowler |
Kishore Mahato | Bowler |
Lalit Rajbanshi | Bowler |
Fantasy Team XI
Position | Player |
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Captain | Dipendra Singh Airee |
Vice-Captain | James Neesham |
Batsmen | Binod Bhandari, Aasif Sheikh, Saif Zaib |
All-rounders | James Neesham, Dipendra Singh Airee, Harsh Thaker |
Wicketkeeper | Lahiru Milantha |
Bowlers | Scott Kuggeleijn, Lalit Rajbanshi, Abinash Bohara, Mohammad Mohsin |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report:
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground has shown signs of wear, with recent matches favoring bowlers. Spinners are expected to play a pivotal role, and any score above 150 will likely be competitive in the final.
Par Score: 150-160 runs
Weather Report:
The weather is expected to be sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging between 9-18°C. Conditions are perfect for cricket, and a full match is on the cards.
Toss Prediction:
Teams chasing have found success in recent games. The captain winning the toss will likely opt to bowl first.
Winning Prediction
The Sudurpaschim Royals have been the standout team this season, showcasing consistent performances with both bat and ball. The Janakpur Bolts, while spirited, have been inconsistent and heavily reliant on individual brilliance.
Prediction: Sudurpaschim Royals to claim the inaugural Nepal Premier League title!
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