Fortune Barishal vs Khulna Tigers: BPL 2025 Match Preview

Match Details

• Match: Fortune Barishal vs Khulna Tigers | 35th Match | Bangladesh Premier League 2024/25
• Date: 27th January 2025
• Time: 1:30 PM BDT, 1:00 PM IST, 12:30 PM PKT
• Venue: Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur
• Format: T20

Match Preview

The 35th match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025 will see Fortune Barishal take on Khulna Tigers at the iconic Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur. Both teams are vying for crucial points as the tournament approaches its business end, making this encounter a high-stakes clash.

Fortune Barishal Overview

Fortune Barishal, led by the experienced Tamim Iqbal, has been one of the standout teams this season. With a balanced squad featuring explosive batters like Towhid Hridoy and Dawid Malan, and versatile all-rounders such as Mohammad Nabi and Kyle Mayers, Barishal has consistently delivered strong performances. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi and supported by Faheem Ashraf, adds depth and variety to the side.

Barishal’s recent form has been impressive, with 6 wins in 8 matches, showcasing their ability to adapt to different match situations. Their previous encounter against Khulna Tigers ended in a thrilling 7-run victory, highlighting their ability to hold their nerve in tight contests.

Khulna Tigers Overview

The Khulna Tigers, under the leadership of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, have shown resilience throughout the tournament. With a mix of experienced campaigners like Afif Hossain and Imrul Kayes, and emerging talents such as Mahidul Islam Ankon, the Tigers have the firepower to challenge any team. Their bowling unit, featuring Nasum Ahmed and Abu Hider Rony, has been effective in exploiting the conditions at Mirpur.

However, the Tigers have struggled for consistency, with 4 wins in 9 matches. Their recent narrow defeat to Barishal will serve as motivation to turn the tables in this crucial fixture.

Head-to-Head Stats

In their last five encounters, Fortune Barishal has edged ahead with 3 wins, while Khulna Tigers have secured 2 victories. The closely contested matches between these two sides promise another exciting battle.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Shere Bangla National Stadium pitch is known for its balanced nature, offering early assistance to pacers before becoming conducive to spin as the game progresses. The average first-innings score in T20 matches here is around 150-160, but teams batting first have often struggled to defend totals due to dew affecting the second innings.

Weather conditions are expected to be pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C. However, the possibility of dew in the latter stages of the match could influence the toss decision, with teams likely preferring to chase.

Key Players to Watch

• Fortune Barishal:

  • Towhid Hridoy (Top-order batter with consistent performances)
  • Kyle Mayers (Explosive all-rounder capable of match-winning contributions)
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lethal pacer with the ability to strike early)

• Khulna Tigers:

  • Afif Hossain (Dynamic all-rounder and key middle-order batter)
  • Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Captain and reliable all-rounder)
  • Nasum Ahmed (Left-arm spinner with a knack for picking crucial wickets)

Predicted Playing XIs

• Fortune Barishal: Tamim Iqbal (C), Towhid Hridoy, Dawid Malan, Mushfiqur Rahim (WK), Mahmudullah, Mohammad Nabi, Kyle Mayers, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tanvir Islam, Ripon Mondol.
• Khulna Tigers: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (C), Afif Hossain, Imrul Kayes, Mahidul Islam Ankon (WK), Nasum Ahmed, Abu Hider Rony, Hasan Mahmud, Naim Sheikh, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Ziaur Rahman, Rubel Hossain.

Match Prediction

Fortune Barishal enters this match as the favorites, given their superior form and balanced squad. However, Khulna Tigers have the potential to spring a surprise, especially if their key players deliver under pressure.

• Toss Winner: Fortune Barishal
• Player of the Match: Kyle Mayers
• Top Run Scorer: Towhid Hridoy (BRSAL), Afif Hossain (KT)
• Top Wicket Taker: Shaheen Shah Afridi (BRSAL), Nasum Ahmed (KT)
• Predicted Score: 170+ (KT), 180+ (BRSAL)
• Win Probability: 58% (BRSAL), 42% (KT)

Disclaimer: This preview is based on analysis and insights. Actual match outcomes may vary.
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