Related Articles
The Morrisville Samp Army will be aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak in the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2024 as they take on the UP Nawabs in Match 8. With two wins from two games, Morrisville Samp Army is brimming with confidence. On the other hand, the UP Nawabs will be desperate to bounce back after a disappointing loss in their tournament opener against Team Abu Dhabi.
This clash promises to be a battle of contrasting forms—Morrisville’s dominance versus Nawabs’ hunt for redemption.
Teams Preview
Morrisville Samp Army
Rohan Mustafa has led the Samp Army from the front, guiding his team to two commanding victories. Their latest triumph came against the defending champions, New York Strikers, in a 36-run win. The team has excelled in all departments, making them a formidable unit.
- Batting:
- Faf du Plessis played a match-winning knock of 75 off 32 balls in the last game and will be key to their top-order strength alongside Sharjeel Khan.
- Andries Gous, who blasted 41 off just 16 balls, adds muscle to the middle order.
- All-rounders Karim Janat and Imad Wasim will be crucial in finishing the innings with a flourish.
- Bowling:
- Isuru Udana and Imad Wasim have delivered early breakthroughs, while spinners Qais Ahmad and Sharafuddin Ashraf have kept opposition batters in check during the middle overs.
- Amir Hamza‘s 3-wicket haul against the Strikers showcased the depth in their bowling attack.
Key Players: Faf du Plessis, Andries Gous, Alzarri Joseph
Predicted Playing XI:
Rohan Mustafa (c), Faf du Plessis, Sharjeel Khan, Andries Gous (wk), Jack Taylor, Karim Janat, Imad Wasim, Qais Ahmad, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Isuru Udana, Hazrat Bilal
UP Nawabs
The UP Nawabs, led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, had a forgettable outing in their opening game. The batting lineup faltered, with only one batter reaching double digits. The Nawabs must regroup quickly to remain competitive in the tournament.
- Batting:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Khalid Shah need to provide a solid start, setting a platform for the experienced middle-order trio of Dawid Malan, Najibullah Zadran, and Andre Fletcher.
- All-rounders Curtis Campher and Odean Smith have the ability to contribute quick runs in the death overs.
- Bowling:
- The bowling attack, led by Farhan Khan and Binura Fernando, must deliver early wickets to trouble the in-form Samp Army.
- Adil Rashid will be pivotal in controlling the middle overs with his guile and experience.
Key Players: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid
Predicted Playing XI:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (c), Dawid Malan, Andre Fletcher (wk), Curtis Campher, Najibullah Zadran, Khalid Shah, Bodugum Akhilesh Reddy, Odean Smith, Farhan Khan, Adil Rashid, Binura Fernando
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium offers a batter-friendly surface with a fast outfield. The conditions are tough for fast bowlers, but spinners have been effective, exploiting the turn and bounce on offer.
- Average First Innings Score: 115 runs
- Target Score: 130+ runs
Weather Forecast
Clear skies are expected in Abu Dhabi, with warm temperatures around 27°C. Ideal conditions for cricket with no interruptions anticipated.
Toss Prediction
Teams chasing have enjoyed more success at this venue, winning 5 of the first 7 games this season. Expect the toss-winning captain to bowl first.
Winning Prediction
The Morrisville Samp Army are in prime form, excelling in both batting and bowling departments. On the other hand, the UP Nawabs need significant improvements, especially from their batting unit, to compete. Given their recent performances and depth in both departments, the Samp Army enters this game as clear favorites.
Prediction: Morrisville Samp Army to win comfortably.
