The Karnali Yaks will take on the Pokhara Avengers in a crucial encounter in the Nepal Premier League 2024 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. Both teams are eager to climb the points table, with the Yaks gaining momentum after back-to-back wins, while the Avengers are coming off an emphatic 10-wicket victory.
With both teams striving for a playoff spot, expect a thrilling contest as the Yaks aim to maintain their winning streak, while the Avengers look to carry their batting form forward.
Teams Preview
Karnali Yaks Preview
The Karnali Yaks have made a strong comeback with two consecutive wins. Their narrow 7-run victory over the Biratnagar Kings in the last game showcased their bowling strength, as they defended a modest total. However, their batting remains a concern, with inconsistency plaguing their top and middle order.
- Key Performers:
- William Bosisto has been a standout with a 66-run knock in the last game, holding the innings together.
- Dev Khanal showed promise with 53 runs and forms a key partnership with Shikhar Dhawan, who needs to step up his game.
- Nandan Yadav impressed with 3/19 in the last match, supported by Bipin Sharma (2/20) in the bowling department.
Concerns:
Chadwick Walton’s inconsistency and the team’s inability to accelerate in the middle overs remain areas to address. The Yaks need their bowlers to replicate their form and restrict the Avengers’ strong batting lineup.
Predicted Playing XI:
Sompal Kami (c), Dev Khanal, Shikhar Dhawan, Chadwick Walton (wk), Babar Hayat, Gulshan Jha, Arjun Gharti, Zeeshan Maqsood, Nandan Yadav, Bipin Sharma, Bhuvan Karki
Pokhara Avengers Preview
The Pokhara Avengers are in high spirits after a dominating performance against the Lumbini Lions, where their openers chased down a target of 137 runs without losing a wicket. Their batting unit looks formidable, with contributions across the lineup, while their bowling is starting to find its rhythm.
- Key Performers:
- Andries Gous smashed a scintillating century (104* off 55), setting up a record partnership with Dinesh Kharel, who scored 61* off 46.
- Ravi Bopara continues to be a valuable all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball.
- Bipin Khatri delivered a strong performance with the ball (2/18) and will look to strike early in this match.
Concerns:
The Avengers’ middle order remains largely untested due to the dominance of their openers. Their bowlers, though effective in the last match, need to be consistent in containing runs in the middle overs.
Predicted Playing XI:
Kushal Bhurtel (c), Andries Gous, Dilip Nath (wk), Dinesh Kharel, Matthew Critchley, Raymon Reifer, Michael Leask, Narayan Joshi, Bipin Khatri, Aakash Chand, Sagar Dhakal
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground offers a balanced wicket with something for both batters and bowlers. The new ball tends to move early, favoring fast bowlers, while spinners find assistance as the pitch slows down.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 136 runs
- Competitive Total: 160 runs
Toss Prediction:
With the wicket slowing down, teams batting first have found success. The captain winning the toss is likely to bat first to take advantage of the conditions early on.
Weather Forecast
Clear skies are expected, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 18°C. Perfect conditions for cricket, with no rain interruptions anticipated.
KNY vs PKA: Winning Prediction
The Pokhara Avengers hold the upper hand with their batting unit in excellent form. The Karnali Yaks, despite their recent wins, have struggled with batting consistency, which could prove costly against a confident Avengers side.
Prediction: Pokhara Avengers to win
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