The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-25 reaches its knockout phase with a crucial Eliminator match between Rangpur Riders and Khulna Tigers. The match is set to take place on February 3, 2025, at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, at 1:00 PM IST. Here’s an in-depth analysis, including Dream11 predictions, fantasy cricket tips, and more for this high-stakes clash.
Match Details
- Match: Rangpur Riders vs Khulna Tigers, Eliminator
- Date: February 3, 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM IST
- Venue: Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, Dhaka
- Weather: Sunny with temperatures around 21°C; no chance of rain expected.
- Live Streaming: Fancode
Pitch Report
The Sher-e-Bangla pitch offers a balanced contest, supporting both batters and bowlers. While the surface provides initial assistance to pacers, spinners can be effective in the middle overs due to the nature of the wear. Scoring has been challenging, with an average first-innings score of 150 in recent matches. Captains winning the toss may prefer to bowl first, taking advantage of early conditions before the pitch deteriorates.
Team Previews
Rangpur Riders: Rangpur Riders had a stellar start to the season with eight wins but stumbled in the last few matches, losing four consecutively. They come into this game looking to bounce back, relying on key players like Iftikhar Ahmed, who has been a consistent performer with both bat and ball.
Khulna Tigers: Khulna Tigers, led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, gained momentum with recent victories, including a significant win over Rangpur. With a strong all-round performance by captain Mehidy Hasan, they have a balanced squad capable of overturning any challenge.
Probable Playing XIs
Rangpur Riders:
- Soumya Sarkar
- Tawfique Khan
- Saif Hassan
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Nurul Hasan (c & wk)
- Mahedi Hasan
- Mohammad Saifuddin
- Akif Javed
- Rakibul Hasan
- Nahid Rana
- Md Azizul Hakim Tamim
Khulna Tigers:
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c)
- Mohammad Naim
- Alex Ross
- William Bosisto
- Mahidul Islam Ankon (wk)
- Afif Hossain
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Abu Hider Rony
- Musfik Hasan
- Hasan Mahmud
- Nasum Ahmed
Key Players to Watch
Rangpur Riders
- Iftikhar Ahmed: Influential all-rounder contributing significantly in multiple departments.
- Akif Javed: Leading the bowling attack with impressive figures this season.
Khulna Tigers
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Performances as captain and player have been pivotal, making him a valuable asset.
- Mohammad Naim: Key batsman with a strong goal for the top-order influx.
Dream11 Fantasy Team Suggestions
Team 1 (Head-to-Head/Small Leagues):
- Wicketkeeper: Nurul Hasan
- Batters: Soumya Sarkar, Naim Sheikh, William Bosisto, Afif Hossain
- All-rounders: Khushdil Shah (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vc), Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Mahedi Shak Hasan
- Bowlers: Nahid Rana
Team 2 (Grand Leagues):
- Wicketkeeper: Nurul Hasan
- Batters: Saif Hassan, Naim Sheikh (vc), William Bosisto
- All-rounders: Khushdil Shah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Iftikhar Ahmed (c), Mohammad Nawaz, Mahedi Shak Hasan
- Bowlers: Nahid Rana, Akif Javed
Expert Tips
- Captaincy Picks: Khushdil Shah for small leagues, Iftikhar Ahmed for grand leagues.
- Vice-Captain Choices: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Naim Sheikh.
Match Prediction
Despite Rangpur’s volatile form, their wealth of talent can’t be overlooked. However, Khulna’s recent performance momentum gives them an edge in this eliminator. Expect the Khulna Tigers to advance in the competition, riding high on their recent successes. General betting insights favour Khulna Tigers, and they are expected to continue their momentum from the late league stage into this elimination match.
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