Related Articles
The 14th match of the 2024 Nepal Premier League sees an exciting clash between the Janakpur Bolts and the Lumbini Lions at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Janakpur Bolts have dominated the tournament, remaining unbeaten at the top of the standings, while the Lions are yet to register their first win and are at the bottom of the table.
This top-versus-bottom encounter is shaping up to be a potential one-sided affair, but the Lions will be eager to upset the favorites and turn their fortunes around.
Teams Preview
Janakpur Bolts Preview
The Janakpur Bolts have been in outstanding form, winning all three of their matches so far. Their recent seven-wicket win over the Pokhara Avengers showcased their depth in batting and bowling.
The batting has been led by Lahiru Milantha, who has amassed 144 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 147. James Neesham has added stability and explosiveness to the middle order, scoring an unbeaten 40 off 20 in the last game. Skipper Anil Sah and opener Aasif Sheikh further strengthen the batting lineup.
The Bolts’ bowling unit, spearheaded by Lalit Rajbanshi, has been lethal. Rajbanshi has picked up seven wickets in three games at a miserly economy of 6.25. Mohammad Mohsin and Kishore Mahato have also contributed significantly, ensuring opponents struggle to build partnerships.
Key Players: Lahiru Milantha, Lalit Rajbanshi, James Neesham
Predicted Playing XI:
Anil Sah (c), Aasif Sheikh, Lahiru Milantha (wk), Harsh Thaker, James Neesham, Mohammad Mohsin, Shubh Kansakar, Tul Thapa, Lalit Rajbanshi, Hemant Dhami, Kishore Mahato
Lumbini Lions Preview
The Lions are in dire need of a turnaround after losing all three of their matches. Their latest defeat came against Sudur Paschim Royals, where they managed only 142-9 in a chase of 188.
Bibek Yadav has been a lone warrior, scoring a remarkable 77* off 54 in the last game. Skipper Rohit Paudel showed his destructive ability earlier in the tournament with a brilliant 95 off 59 but has lacked consistency. Tom Moores has chipped in with valuable contributions but needs to step up.
The bowling unit has been a major concern. While Ramon Simmonds and Durgesh Gupta have shown promise, they have struggled to provide early breakthroughs. The lack of discipline in the middle overs has cost the Lions dearly.
Key Players: Bibek Yadav, Rohit Paudel, Tom Moores
Predicted Playing XI:
Arjun Saud, Unmukt Chand (wk), Rohit Paudel (c), Sundeep Jora, Tom Moores, Bibek Yadav, Dinesh Adhikari, Saad Bin Zafar, Ramon Simmonds, Durgesh Gupta, Surya Tamang
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground offers a balanced pitch, with something for both batsmen and bowlers. The new ball tends to offer swing, while spinners come into play as the game progresses. The average first-innings score at this venue is 154, with teams needing to cross the 150-mark to stay competitive.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
Chasing has been the preferred strategy at this venue, with eight out of the last 12 matches won by the team batting second.
Weather Conditions
Sunny skies with no chance of rain are forecast for the match. Temperatures will range from 12°C to 19°C, providing ideal playing conditions.
Fantasy XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Batsmen | Aasif Sheikh, Tom Moores, Sundeep Jora |
| All-rounders | James Neesham, Rohit Paudel, Harsh Thaker |
| Bowlers | Lalit Rajbanshi, Ramon Simmonds, Durgesh Gupta |
| Wicketkeeper | Lahiru Milantha |
Winning Prediction
The Janakpur Bolts come into this match as clear favorites with their all-round strength and unbeaten run. The Lumbini Lions, plagued by inconsistency, face a daunting task against the table-toppers.
Prediction: Janakpur Bolts 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
