Aries Kollam Sailors vs Calicut Globstars Prediction: Who Will Win 1st T20 KCL Match on 21st August 2025?
The Kerala Cricket League 2025 begins with a blockbuster clash between two of the strongest teams – Aries Kollam Sailors and Calicut Globstars. Last year, Kollam defeated Calicut in the grand final, and this rematch promises fireworks once again. Fans are eager to know the Aries Kollam Sailors vs Calicut Globstars prediction, and the stage is set at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, for a thrilling start. Historically, chasing has been favorable at this venue, and both teams boast match-winners like Sachin Baby and Salman Nizar. With big hitters and quality bowlers on both sides, the opening game could go down to the wire. Cricketwebs provides 100% accurate match prediction tips for every cricket match, and here’s our detailed analysis of today’s encounter.
Match Details
| Match | Aries Kollam Sailors vs Calicut Globstars, 1st T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 21st August 2025 |
| Time | 2:30 PM |
| Venue | Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram |
Team Previews
Aries Kollam Sailors Preview
The defending champions Kollam Sailors are brimming with confidence after their dominant 2024 campaign. Their batting unit is spearheaded by Sachin Baby, the league’s leading run-scorer last year with 423 runs. He is supported by Abhishek J Nair at the top, who scored over 300 runs and set solid foundations. The middle order has consistency in Arun Poulose and Vathsal Govind, while all-rounder Sharafuddeen provides balance with his hitting ability and wicket-taking knack.
Their bowling unit is equally potent. Sharafuddeen (19 wickets last season) leads the attack, assisted by Biju Narayanan and KM Asif, both experienced performers in Kerala’s domestic circuit. Basil NP and Amal A G provide additional depth. The Sailors’ ability to perform under pressure, as seen in their 214-run chase in the final, makes them early favorites again.
Calicut Globstars Preview
The Globstars were runners-up in 2024, losing to the Sailors in the final, but they remain a powerhouse. Their batting revolves around Salman Nizar, who amassed 431 runs last season at a blistering strike rate. He will be partnered by skipper Rohan Kunnummal, who produced 320 runs and is known for his aggressive starts. Maruthungal Rasheed Ajinas and Akhil Scaria bolster the middle order with stability and power-hitting.
Their bowling is arguably stronger than their batting. Akhil Scaria was the standout bowler in 2024, claiming 24 wickets to top the charts. He is supported by Nikhil M, Akhil Dev, and Pallam Anfal, who bring variety and control to the attack. The Globstars are a well-balanced side but will need to overcome the psychological edge that Kollam Sailors hold over them.
Squads
Aries Kollam Sailors Squad:
Abhishek J Nair, Sachin Baby, Arun Poulose, Vathsal Govind, Sharafuddeen, Rahul Sharma, Biju Narayanan, Basil NP, KM Asif, Amal A G, Arjun A K (wk), Pavan Raj
Calicut Globstars Squad:
Rohan Kunnummal, Salman Nizar, Maruthungal Rasheed Ajinas, Akhil Scaria, Pallam Anfal, Akhil Dev, Nikhil M, Abijith Praveen, Ajith Vasudevan, Rahaan Raheem, Perumparambath Anthaf, Sanjay Raj, Arun KA
Probable Playing XI
Aries Kollam Sailors:
Abhishek J Nair, Sachin Baby (c), Arun Poulose, Vathsal Govind, Sharafuddeen, Rahul Sharma, Biju Narayanan, Basil NP, KM Asif, Amal A G, Arjun A K (wk)
Calicut Globstars:
Rohan Kunnummal (c), Salman Nizar, Maruthungal Rasheed Ajinas (wk), Akhil Scaria, Pallam Anfal, Akhil Dev, Nikhil M, Abijith Praveen, Ajith Vasudevan, Rahaan Raheem, Perumparambath Anthaf
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicket-Keeper | Maruthungal Rasheed Ajinas |
| Batters | Sachin Baby, Abhishek J Nair, Salman Nizar, Rohan Kunnummal |
| All-Rounders | Sharafuddeen (C), Akhil Scaria (VC), Vathsal Govind |
| Bowlers | KM Asif, Nikhil M, Basil NP |
Fantasy Analysis:
- Captain Pick: Sharafuddeen – consistent wicket-taker & power hitter.
- Vice-Captain Pick: Akhil Scaria – reliable all-rounder, top wicket-taker.
- Players to Avoid: Abijith Praveen (Calicut) & Rahul Sharma (Kollam) – inconsistent last season.
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Favourite Team for Today
Aries Kollam Sailors enter this game as the favorites, and rightly so. They not only won the title last year but also did it by consistently dominating their opponents, including Calicut in the final. The presence of proven match-winners like Sachin Baby with the bat and Sharafuddeen with the ball makes them a formidable outfit. Their batting lineup has depth, with multiple players capable of anchoring as well as accelerating.
Kollam’s bowling attack, led by KM Asif and Biju Narayanan, also has the edge over Calicut, particularly in crunch situations. Another big factor is their ability to chase down large totals, as seen in their record-breaking final. While Calicut Globstars are a strong side, Kollam’s balance, confidence, and head-to-head edge make them the team to beat in this season opener.
Pitch Report
The Greenfield surface is balanced but favors chasing sides. Batting gets easier under lights, with an average 1st innings score of around 160. Spinners play a key role in the middle overs.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Thiruvananthapuram with no chance of rain. Ideal weather for a full T20 match.
Broadcast Details
Live Streaming: Fancode
Score Prediction
- If Aries Kollam Sailors Bat First: 168+
- If Calicut Globstars Bat First: 151+
Toss Prediction
Winner: Calicut Globstars
Match Prediction
Our Winner: Aries Kollam Sailors Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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