Sylhet Strikers vs Rangpur Riders,9th Match,Bangladesh Premier League, 2024-25,2025-01-06 07:30 GMT

Sylhet Strikers vs Rangpur Riders Match Preview

9th Match, Bangladesh Premier League 2024/25

Date: 06 January 2025, 07:30 GMT

Venue: Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet, Bangladesh

The 9th match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2024/25 will see Sylhet Strikers take on Rangpur Riders at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Rangpur Riders have been in impressive form, winning all their matches so far, including their previous encounter against Sylhet Strikers by 34 runs. Sylhet Strikers, on the other hand, are yet to open their account and will be looking to turn their fortunes around.

Team Previews

Sylhet Strikers

The Strikers have a well-rounded unit with experienced campaigners like Mashrafe Mortaza and explosive all-rounders such as Rahkeem Cornwall. Paul Stirling's aggressive batting at the top could set the tone, while Reece Topley's left-arm pace will be crucial in restricting runs during the death overs. Key players for the Strikers include Rony Talukdar, Jaker Ali, and Tanzim Hassan.

Rangpur Riders

The Riders, led by Nurul Hasan, have a dynamic squad featuring Alex Hales and Iftikhar Ahmed. With a mix of seasoned international stars and promising domestic talent, they possess the firepower to dominate in both departments. Alex Hales' prowess against spin and Mahedi Hasan's all-round abilities could make them game-changers. Key players for the Riders include Nahid Rana, Khusdil Shah, and Iftikhar Ahmed.

Pitch Report

The pitch at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium is traditionally known to favor spinners. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, making it more challenging for batsmen to score freely. The ball tends to grip and turn, especially in the middle and later stages of the game, so teams with quality spinners will have an advantage. Average scores are expected to be in the range of 160-180 runs.

Weather Condition

On Monday, January 6, 2025, Sylhet is expected to experience rather cloudy conditions with a high of 82°F (28°C) and a low of 60°F (15°C). The moderate temperatures and low humidity are favorable for cricket, providing a comfortable environment for both players and spectators.

Head-to-Head Record

Rangpur Riders hold a slight edge over Sylhet Strikers in their previous encounters, with 6 wins to the Strikers' 4.

Probable Playing XI

Sylhet Strikers: Jaker Ali (wk), Paul Stirling, Rony Talukdar, George Munsey, Zakir Hasan, Ariful Haque (c), Samiullah Shinwari, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Al-Amin Hossain, Nihaduzzaman, Reece Topley

Rangpur Riders: Nurul Hasan (c & wk), Alex Hales, Tawfique Khan, Saif Hassan, Mahedi Hasan, Md Azizul Hakim Tamim, Kamrul Islam, Nahid Rana, Akif Javed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah

Match Prediction

Rangpur Riders are slightly favored to win, especially if they chase a moderate target. Their ability to adapt to the slower pitch and utilize their experienced players could give them the edge. However, the Strikers, especially with their home advantage and solid spinners, could surprise Rangpur if they post a strong total. It will be a close contest, but Rangpur is likely to come out on top if they execute their plans well.