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The ICC T20 World Cup Qualification tournament is one of the most anticipated events for associate cricket teams as they vie for a coveted spot in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are eager to make their mark in this qualifier, aiming for their maiden appearance at the World Cup. An early win in the tournament could be crucial for building momentum and securing vital points. Every match in this qualifier holds immense value, with each win bringing them closer to the biggest stage in T20 cricket.
| Tournament: | ICC Mens T20 World Cup Qualifer B |
| Format: | T20I |
| Venue: | West End International Park Stadium, Doha |
| Toss Prediction: | To Bowl |
Teams Preview
Bahrain Preview
Bahrain enters this match looking to bounce back from a disappointing performance in their previous outing. They were bowled out for a paltry 89 runs in 18.1 overs. Skipper Haider Ali was the lone warrior, scoring 54 runs, while the rest of the batting lineup faltered, with no other player reaching double digits. The lack of partnerships hurt Bahrain’s chances, and they will need a collective effort from their batters to post a competitive total this time around.
Batting Department:
- Key Players: Haider Ali remains the backbone of Bahrain’s batting unit, and the team will rely on him to anchor the innings once again. Ahmed Bin Nasir and Shahbaz Badar need to step up and provide support to their captain in the top order.
Bowling Attack:
- Bowling Strength: Despite a low score to defend, Bahrain’s bowlers put up a valiant fight, restricting the opposition to 93/2. Abdul Majid was impressive with his economical spell of 4-1-12-0, while Asif Ali and Imran Anwar managed to pick up crucial wickets. They will need to replicate that form to contain Saudi Arabia’s batting lineup.
Key Players:
- Haider Ali: Leading from the front with the bat, he will be crucial to setting a strong total.
- Abdul Majid: His ability to bowl tight lines can put pressure on the opposition.
- Imran Anwar: A reliable bowler who can strike at key moments.
Bahrain Predicted Playing XI:
Umer Toor, Imran Anwar, Haider Ali (c), Ahmed Bin Nasir, Shahbaz Badar, Sohail Ahmed, Abdul Majid, Asif Ali, Ali Dawood, Rizwan Butt, Imran Khan.
Saudi Arabia Preview
Saudi Arabia also comes into this match on the back of a defeat, losing their last game in a rain-affected 8-over shootout. They managed to post 73/7, thanks largely to Abdul Waheed’s solid knock of 37 runs. However, their other batters, including Faisal Khan, Manan Ali, and Wajid Hassan, failed to make an impact, leaving Saudi Arabia with an under-par total.
Batting Department:
- Key Players: Abdul Waheed has been the standout batter for Saudi Arabia, and they will be counting on him to provide a strong start. The middle order, including Faisal Khan and Manan Ali, must step up to support their opener.
Bowling Attack:
- Bowling Strength: Saudi Arabia’s bowlers showed promise, taking 4 wickets in defense of a small total. Ishtiaq Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2-1-7-2. He, along with Usman Najeeb and Wajid Hassan, will need to bowl with discipline to keep Bahrain’s batters in check.
Key Players:
- Abdul Waheed: His form at the top of the order will be crucial for Saudi Arabia’s chances.
- Ishtiaq Ahmed: The strike bowler who can create early breakthroughs.
- Wajid Hassan: A versatile bowler who can contain runs in the middle overs.
Saudi Arabia Predicted Playing XI:
Faisal Khan, Manan Ali, Wajid Hassan, Abdul Waheed, Kashif Abbas, Hisman Shaikh, Usman Khalid, Saad Khan, Zain Ul Abidin, Usman Najeeb, Ishtiaq Ahmed.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
- Pitch Report: The pitch at West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. Historically, scores around 140-150 have been competitive here, but teams with quality spinners could turn the game in their favor. As the match progresses, the pitch may slow down, making stroke play more challenging.
- Weather Forecast: The weather in Doha is set to be bright and sunny, with clear skies and no rain interruptions expected. Temperatures will hover around 28-32°C, providing ideal conditions for cricket.
- Toss Prediction: Both captains might prefer to bowl first, given the history of the venue where teams chasing have had success. The pitch is likely to remain consistent throughout the game, so the chasing team could have an advantage under the lights.
Winning Prediction
Both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are looking to secure their first win in this qualifier and gain some momentum. Bahrain seems to have a stronger batting lineup, anchored by the experienced Haider Ali, and a balanced bowling attack led by Abdul Majid. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s reliance on Abdul Waheed and their inconsistent middle order could be a challenge against Bahrain’s disciplined bowlers.
Prediction: Bahrain to win, given their depth in both batting and bowling departments.
Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Captain: Haider Ali
- Vice-Captain: Abdul Waheed
- Top Picks: Abdul Majid, Ishtiaq Ahmed, Shahbaz Badar, Wajid Hassan
- Differential Picks: Ahmed Bin Nasir, Faisal Khan, Imran Anwar
Suggested Fantasy XI:
- Haider Ali (C)
- Abdul Waheed (VC)
- Ahmed Bin Nasir
- Shahbaz Badar
- Faisal Khan
- Abdul Majid
- Wajid Hassan
- Imran Anwar
- Asif Ali
- Ishtiaq Ahmed
- Usman Najeeb
Expect a competitive match as both teams look to kickstart their campaign with a crucial win in this qualifier!
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