NPL, Janakpur Bolts vs Pokhara Avengers Match Prediction, Preview, Players to Watch Out, Pitch Report

The Nepal Premier League (NPL) is set for an important clash as the Janakpur Bolts take on the Pokhara Avengers at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Stadium, in Kritipur, as both sides are still searching for their first win of the season, sitting at the bottom of the table after two losses each.

The Janakpur Bolts, have  lost both their matches. Their last defeat came against the Biratnagar Kings by just nine runs. While their bowlers have shown some spark Sangeeth Cooray with early wickets and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, who scored 41 in the last game their batting has lacked consistency with cost them in to games . Aasif Sheikh, who is also their top scorer with 67 runs, while skipper Anil Sah still looking for find rhythm  .

The Pokhara Avengers have also had a slow start, losing both their games, including a heavy 53–run defeat to the Kings. In their previous match, they fell short by 18 runs against the Sudur paschim Royals. with early wickets hurting them. captain Kushal Bhurtel who scored back to half century in two two game, their most reliable batter, and Jimmy Neesham, who has taken three wickets and played a powerful knock of 47 in the previous game, their inconsistency in bowling with leaked many runs also in middle order.

Head to Head Records in NPL

These two teams have only played once before in the NPL, where the Bolts won by seven wickets.

Pitch Report 

The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur provides a balanced surface.  we have saw in last 3 games batting first team won all 3 games and as the match progresses spinners comes into play found grip and turn from surface, around 160-165 could be competitive total, teams winning the toss prefer to bat first.

Probable playing XIs 

Janakpur Bolts

Lahiru Milantha (wk), Aasif Sheikh, Anil Sah (c), Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Jan Nicol Loftie Eaton, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Mayan yadav, Rupesh Singh, Kishore Mahto, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sangeeth Cooray

Pokhara Avengers

Arjun Kumal , Adam Rossington (wk), Kushal Bhurtel (c), James Neesham, Sumeet Verma , Kiran Thagunna, Abhisekh Tiwari, Daniel Douthwaite, Bipin Khatri, Akash Chand, Sagar Dhakal

Players to Watch Out 

Kushal Bhurtel :  is in excellent form and is carrying the Avengers’ batting on his shoulders. He has scored 112 runs in just two innings with a great strike rate of 177.78. With 8 sixes already, he will vital for the team .

Jimmy Neesham :  is the Avengers highest wicket-taker with 3 wickets and also a strong hitter with the bat. His recent quick 47 runs (strike rate 180.77) proves he can change the game in both batting and bowling.

Aasif Sheikh : has been the most reliable batter for the Bolts. He has scored 67 runs in two matches, including a half-century, with an average of 33.50. His steady batting at the top is very important for the team, whether they are setting a target or chasing one.

Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton :  will anchor the innings in middle order. He scored a fighting 41 runs in the last match . His ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate late makes him a crucial for team.

Lalit Rajbanshi : is a dependable left-arm spinner known for his tight lines and ability to control the middle overs skill in building pressure and breaking partnerships makes him a to important for the Bolts .

Match Prediction 

This match promises a tense battle as both teams hunt for their first win of the season. If Janakpur Bolts batting clicks then won,The Pokhara Avengers, powered by the strong form of Kushal Bhurtel and Jimmy Neesham, appear more balanced at the moment. If their bowlers execute well, the Avengers are slightly better placed to edge out .