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The 5th match of the Nepal Premier League 2024 promises an exciting contest as the Chitwan Rhinos take on the Pokhara Avengers at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. The Rhinos, fresh off a clinical victory in their opening game against the Kathmandu Gurkhas, will look to maintain their winning streak. Meanwhile, the Avengers, led by Kushal Bhurtel, begin their campaign with hopes of making a strong start.
Teams Preview
Chitwan Rhinos
The Kushal Malla-led Rhinos had a dominant start to the tournament, showcasing their prowess with both bat and ball. Their bowling attack, led by the experienced Sohail Tanvir, dismantled the opposition in the last game, while the batters showed consistency in chasing a modest total.
The team will expect Hassan Eisakhil and Deepak Bohara to provide a better start after their lackluster performance in the opener. The middle order boasts power hitters like Luc Benkenstein, Kushal Malla, and Ravi Bopara, who are capable of anchoring or accelerating the innings as required. The lower order, featuring Santosh Karki and Sharad Vesawkar, adds depth and flexibility.
The bowling unit looks well-rounded, with Tanvir leading the charge and support from Rijan Dhakal, Kushal Malla, and Amar Routela. Their disciplined performance in the opening game is a strong indicator of their capabilities.
Key Players:
- Sohail Tanvir: A five-wicket haul in the previous game highlights his match-winning ability.
- Kushal Malla: A reliable all-rounder who can change the game with both bat and ball.
- Luc Benkenstein: A powerful hitter who can stabilize the innings or accelerate when needed.
Predicted XI:
Kushal Malla (c), Hassan Eisakhil, Deepak Bohara, Luc Benkenstein, Ravi Bopara, Santosh Karki, Sharad Vesawkar, Bipin Rawal (wk), Amar Routela, Rijan Dhakal, Sohail Tanvir.
Pokhara Avengers Preview
The Pokhara Avengers begin their campaign against a formidable opponent. Captain Kushal Bhurtel will look to lead from the front, anchoring the innings while their power hitters play around him. The Avengers boast a strong batting lineup, with players like Andries Gous, Bas De Leede, and Michael Leask, capable of posting or chasing challenging totals.
However, the team’s bowling unit appears less threatening compared to their opponents. Bowlers like Bipin Khatri and Akash Chand will need to find early breakthroughs to put pressure on the Rhinos’ batting lineup. All-rounders Raymon Reifer and Michael Leask will play a crucial role in controlling the middle overs.
Key Players:
- Kushal Bhurtel: An experienced campaigner with the ability to play match-defining innings.
- Bas De Leede: A dependable all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Raymon Reifer: Key to maintaining control in the middle overs with his bowling.
Predicted XI:
Kushal Bhurtel (c), Andries Gous (wk), Sunam Gautam, Dinesh Kharel, Bas De Leede, Michael Leask, Dilip Nath, Narayan Joshi, Raymon Reifer, Bipin Khatri, Akash Chand.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report – Tribhuvan University Ground, Kirtipur
The Kirtipur wicket has been favorable for batters, though bowlers can exploit movement in the early overs. As the game progresses, spinners tend to find assistance, especially on dry surfaces.
- Average first-innings score: 127 runs.
- Teams batting first should aim for 160+ runs to put pressure on the opposition.
Weather Forecast
The weather is expected to be clear, with temperatures hovering around 20°C during the match. Conditions should remain ideal for cricket, with no rain interruptions expected.
Toss Prediction
The trend at Kirtipur favors teams chasing, as early movement can make batting challenging. The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first.
Winning Prediction
The Chitwan Rhinos have a well-balanced side with an in-form bowling attack and a dependable batting lineup. They come into the game with momentum, having dominated their first match. On the other hand, while the Pokhara Avengers boast a strong batting lineup, their bowling lacks the firepower to trouble a confident Rhinos unit.
Prediction: Chitwan Rhinos to win.
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