Sudurpaschim Royals vs Janakpur Bolts: The stage is set for an exciting Qualifier 1 clash in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2024 as table-toppers Sudurpaschim Royals take on second-placed Janakpur Bolts. Both teams will be vying for a direct entry into the finals, with the loser getting another shot in Qualifier 2. With momentum on their side, Sudurpaschim Royals look formidable, while Janakpur Bolts aim to bounce back after recent struggles.

Pitch Report

• The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur has offered a balanced wicket throughout the tournament. Batting first has been slightly favorable, with teams scoring competitive totals and applying pressure in the second innings. The team winning the toss may choose to bat first in a high-stakes game.

Head-to-Head

• Overall Record: Sudurpaschim Royals 1 – 0 Janakpur Bolts
• Last Meeting: Sudurpaschim Royals defeated Janakpur Bolts by 72 runs (December 11, 2024).

Form Guide

Sudurpaschim Royals: W W W L W

• The Royals have been dominant this season, winning 6 out of their 7 matches.
• Key wins: 90-run victory over Biratnagar Kings and a 73-run win against Kathmandu.

Janakpur Bolts: L W L W W

• Bolts started strongly but faltered in the latter stages, losing 2 of their last 3 matches.
• Recent setback: Lost by 32 runs against Chitwan Rhinos.

Team Previews

Sudurpaschim Royals

The Royals have been the standout team this season, with a stunning Net Run Rate (NRR) of 2.087. Captain Dipendra Singh Airee has led from the front with both bat and ball. Their bowlers, including Scott Kuggeleijn and Abinash Bohara, have consistently dismantled opposition line-ups.

Key Players:

• Dipendra Singh Airee (c): Leading run-scorer and match-winner.
• Scott Kuggeleijn: Wickets upfront with the new ball.
• Harmeet Singh: Reliable with both bat and ball.

Predicted XI:
Saif Zaib, Binod Bhandari (wk), Brandon McMullen, Ishan Pandey, Dipendra Singh Airee (c), Aarif Sheikh, Harmeet Singh, Scott Kuggeleijn, Naresh Budayair, Naren Saud, Abinash Bohara

Janakpur Bolts

Janakpur started the season strongly but struggled against strong teams like Sudurpaschim Royals and Chitwan Rhinos. They need their experienced players, such as James Neesham and Lalit Rajbanshi, to step up in this crucial encounter.

Key Players:

• James Neesham: Power-hitter and experienced all-rounder.
• Lalit Rajbanshi: Economical and wicket-taking bowler.
• Kishore Mahato: Leading wicket-taker for the Bolts.

Predicted XI:
Anil Sah (c), Aasif Sheikh, Lahiru Milantha †, Harsh Thaker, Shubh Kansakar, James Neesham, Mohammad Mohsin, Arniko Yadav, Sher Malla, Lalit Rajbanshi, Kishore Mahat

Sudurpaschim Royals vs Janakpur Bolts Prediction

Sudurpaschim Royals enter this clash as clear favorites given their consistent form, strong squad depth, and dominant victory over Janakpur Bolts in the league stage. However, Janakpur Bolts possess the firepower to spring a surprise if their key players perform.

Prediction: Sudurpaschim Royals to win and secure a spot in the finals.

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