The Chitwan Rhinos take on the Lumbini Lions in the 16th match of the Nepal Premier League 2024 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The Rhinos are in solid form with 3 wins from 4 matches, while the Lions are yet to taste victory, languishing at the bottom of the points table with 4 consecutive losses.
The Lions will aim to turn their fortunes around, but given the Rhinos’ recent dominance and balanced squad, the odds seem stacked in favor of the latter.
Teams Preview
Chitwan Rhinos Preview
The Chitwan Rhinos are riding high after a strong performance in their last match, where they defended a competitive 164-run total and bowled out the opposition for 131. The team has a solid bowling unit and batters who can deliver under pressure.
- Key Performers:
- Hassan Eisakhil scored a match-winning 65 off 52 balls at the top of the order, setting up the innings.
- Ravi Bopara played a crucial role in finishing with a quickfire 36 off 18, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
- With the ball, Kushal Malla, Nicol Loftie-Eaton, and Amar Routela shone, taking two wickets each.
Strengths:
The Rhinos’ strength lies in their bowling attack, led by the experienced Sohail Tanvir, who provides early breakthroughs. Bipin Rawal and Kushal Malla form the backbone of the middle order, while Ravi Bopara continues to be a key all-rounder.
Predicted Playing XI:
Santosh Khatri, Hassan Eisakhil, Bipin Rawal (wk), Kushal Malla (c), Ravi Bopara, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Amar Routela, Rijan Dhakal, Ranjit Kumar, Deepak Bohara, Sohail Tanvir
Lumbini Lions Preview
The Lumbini Lions have endured a tough season, losing all four games. Despite having a strong squad on paper, the team has struggled to deliver consistently in both batting and bowling.
- Key Performers:
- Rohit Paudel has been the standout batter, scoring a gritty 35 off 38 in the last match.
- Tom Moores provided support with a quick 31 off 23, while Abhishek Gautam impressed with the ball, taking 3/20.
Concerns:
The Lions’ top order has failed to fire, and their bowling unit lacks consistency. Despite a spirited effort in their last game, where they lost by just 1 run, the team has struggled to close out games.
Predicted Playing XI:
Aashutosh Ghiraiya, Arjun Saud (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Tom Moores, Ben Cutting, Bibek Yadav, Sundeep Jora, Saad Bin Zafar, Durgesh Gupta, Abhishek Gautam, Ramon Simmonds
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground offers a balanced wicket, slightly favoring bowlers.
- Average 1st Innings Score (last 10 matches): 156 runs
- Competitive Total: 170-175 runs
Toss Prediction: Bat First
Recent matches have favored teams defending totals as the pitch tends to slow down in the second innings.
Weather Conditions
Clear and sunny skies are expected, with temperatures ranging between 17°C and 24°C. No rain interruptions are predicted.
CR vs LBL: Winning Prediction
The Chitwan Rhinos are in better form and have a more balanced squad compared to the struggling Lumbini Lions. The Rhinos’ bowlers have been exceptional, while their batting unit has delivered crucial contributions.
Prediction: Chitwan Rhinos to win.
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 10000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App