Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express Prediction: Who Will Win RW vs NKE 17th T20 BPL Match?
The Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express prediction takes center stage as the two sides lock horns in the 17th match of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025–26 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. With the tournament slowly entering a decisive phase, both teams find themselves on very different paths. Rajshahi Warriors have shown promising form and currently sit comfortably in the top half of the table, while Noakhali Express are enduring a miserable run at the bottom with five consecutive defeats.
Heading into this fixture, momentum clearly favors Rajshahi Warriors. Their batting unit has looked settled, their bowling attack disciplined, and their overall balance superior. Players like Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim have provided stability and class with the bat, while the bowling department, led by Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Ripon Mondol, has delivered wickets at crucial stages. Given Sylhet’s tendency to favor chasing sides, Rajshahi’s ability to adapt to conditions further strengthens their case.
Noakhali Express, on the other hand, are running out of time. Despite individual contributions from Mahidul Islam Ankon and Hasan Mahmud, the team has failed to put together a complete performance. Their batting has often collapsed under pressure, and while their bowlers have tried to keep things tight, the lack of scoreboard pressure has hurt them repeatedly.
Historically, Sylhet has produced competitive matches, but totals in the range of 150–160 have proven challenging to chase. This makes toss and execution vital factors. As things stand, the Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express prediction strongly leans toward Rajshahi, but desperation can sometimes inspire unexpected performances in T20 cricket.
Overall, Rajshahi Warriors appear better equipped in terms of form, confidence, and balance, while Noakhali Express must produce something special to turn their season around.
- Rajshahi Warriors are in strong form with three wins from four matches.
- Noakhali Express are winless after five games and bottom of the table.
- Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim anchor Rajshahi’s batting.
- Mahidul Islam Ankon and Hasan Mahmud are key hopes for Noakhali.
Match Details
| Match | Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express, 17th T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 8 January 2026 |
| Time | 12:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet |
| Tournament | Bangladesh Premier League 2025–26 |
| Broadcaster | FanCode |
Rajshahi Warriors Preview
Rajshahi Warriors have enjoyed an encouraging start to their BPL 2025–26 campaign. With three wins from four matches, they have established themselves as genuine contenders for a playoff spot. The Warriors have looked well-rounded, showing composure with the bat and control with the ball, which has allowed them to handle pressure situations better than most teams so far.
The batting unit has been spearheaded by Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has been in sublime touch. With 203 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 147, Shanto has provided both stability and aggression at the top order. His ability to rotate strike and accelerate when required has set the tone for Rajshahi’s innings. Mushfiqur Rahim has complemented him perfectly, contributing 112 runs while acting as the calming presence in the middle order. His experience has been invaluable in guiding younger players through tricky phases.
Sahibzada Farhan has added firepower at the top, ensuring Rajshahi get brisk starts in the powerplay. Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Yasir Ali have chipped in with useful contributions, making the batting lineup deeper and more flexible. This spread of runs has meant Rajshahi are not overly dependent on one individual.
In the bowling department, Rajshahi have found a reliable combination. Tanzim Hasan Sakib has been impressive with the new ball, extracting movement and picking up early wickets. Ripon Mondol has provided breakthroughs in the middle overs, while Binura Fernando adds pace and variety. Spin could play a key role at Sylhet, and the inclusion of Hasan Murad strengthens their slow-bowling options after Mohammad Nawaz’s departure.
Overall, Rajshahi Warriors look settled and confident. Their ability to post competitive totals or chase calmly makes them strong favorites going into this contest.
Noakhali Express Preview
Noakhali Express have had a disastrous start to the BPL 2025–26 season. Five defeats in as many matches have left them rooted to the bottom of the points table, and confidence within the camp is understandably low. While there have been flashes of individual brilliance, the team has struggled to click collectively.
The batting lineup has been the biggest concern. Mahidul Islam Ankon has been the most consistent performer, scoring 117 runs in five matches, often holding the innings together after early collapses. Captain Haider Ali has shown intent, contributing 113 runs, but his lack of consistency has prevented Noakhali from building strong platforms. Mohammad Nabi has provided late-order resistance, including an unbeaten 42 in the previous game, but he has often come in with too much to do.
Top-order instability has hurt Noakhali badly. Frequent early wickets have exposed the middle order, forcing players to rebuild rather than attack. This conservative approach has resulted in below-par totals, putting the bowlers under immense pressure.
Bowling has been relatively more encouraging. Hasan Mahmud has stood out with seven wickets at an excellent economy rate of 5.23, often keeping Noakhali in the contest. Zahir Khan and Mehedi Hasan Rana have also picked up wickets, but lack of runs on the board has meant their efforts often go unrewarded.
Fielding lapses and poor death-over execution have further compounded Noakhali’s problems. As the tournament progresses, their margin for error continues to shrink. To challenge Rajshahi Warriors, Noakhali Express will need a dramatic improvement across all departments, especially in batting intent and partnerships.
Also Check: BPL 2025-26: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Rajshahi Warriors:
Sahibzada Farhan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Hussain Talat, Yasir Ali, SM Meherob, Hasan Murad, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Binura Fernando, Ripon Mondol
Noakhali Express:
Habibur Rahman Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Maaz Sadaqat, Abu Hasim, Munim Shahriar, Mohammad Nabi, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Haider Ali, Hasan Mahmud, Zahir Khan, Rejaur Rahman Raja
Probable Playing XI
| Rajshahi Warriors | Noakhali Express |
|---|---|
| Sahibzada Farhan | Habibur Rahman Sohan |
| Tanzid Hasan Tamim | Soumya Sarkar |
| Najmul Hossain Shanto (C) | Maaz Sadaqat |
| Mushfiqur Rahim (WK) | Mahidul Islam Ankon (WK) |
| Hussain Talat | Mohammad Nabi |
| Yasir Ali | Haider Ali (C) |
| SM Meherob | Munim Shahriar |
| Hasan Murad | Hasan Mahmud |
| Tanzim Hasan Sakib | Zahir Khan |
| Binura Fernando | Rejaur Rahman Raja |
| Ripon Mondol | Mehedi Hasan Rana |
Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahidul Islam Ankon |
| All-rounders | Mohammad Nabi, Hussain Talat |
| Bowlers | Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Ripon Mondol, Hasan Mahmud, Zahir Khan |
| Wicketkeeper | Mushfiqur Rahim |
| Flex Pick | Sahibzada Farhan |
This fantasy combination focuses on form players and those guaranteed to get opportunities. Najmul Hossain Shanto is a must-pick due to his consistency and leadership role. Mushfiqur Rahim adds value with both bat and wicketkeeping points. Mahidul Islam Ankon remains Noakhali’s most reliable batter and is likely to score runs even in defeat.
Among all-rounders, Mohammad Nabi and Hussain Talat provide balance, contributing in multiple facets of the game. Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Ripon Mondol are strong bowling options from Rajshahi, while Hasan Mahmud and Zahir Khan are the best wicket-taking choices from Noakhali.
Captain Choices:
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Mushfiqur Rahim
Vice-Captain Choices:
- Mohammad Nabi
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
Players to Avoid:
- Abu Hasim (poor form)
- Munim Shahriar (limited fantasy impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Rajshahi Warriors are the clear favorites for today’s clash. Their superior form, balanced squad, and strong top order give them a significant edge over Noakhali Express. With Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim anchoring the batting and a disciplined bowling attack backing them up, Rajshahi look well-equipped to handle pressure situations. Noakhali’s ongoing struggles with consistency and confidence make it difficult to see them overcoming a settled Rajshahi side unless they produce an exceptional performance.
Pitch Report
The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium generally offers a balanced surface with slight assistance for bowlers early on. As the match progresses, batting becomes easier, making chasing a preferred option. Spinners get some grip in the middle overs, while pacers can extract bounce with cutters. A first-innings total of 150–160 is considered competitive and often puts pressure on the chasing side.
Weather Report
| Factor | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–25°C |
| Rain Chance | Low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Wind | Light |
Weather conditions in Sylhet look ideal for cricket. Clear skies are expected with minimal chance of rain. Moderate humidity may assist swing bowlers early, but overall conditions should allow a full uninterrupted match.
Broadcast Details
The Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express 17th T20 match will be streamed live on FanCode. Viewers can enjoy live coverage, ball-by-ball commentary, and post-match highlights through the platform.
Toss Prediction
At Sylhet, teams often prefer to bowl first due to the advantage of chasing under lights. Given recent trends, the toss-winning captain is likely to opt for fielding, aiming to restrict the opposition and chase a known target.
Score Prediction
- If Rajshahi Warriors bat first: 150–160
- If Noakhali Express bat first: 140–145
Rajshahi’s stronger batting depth gives them an edge in both scenarios.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman: Najmul Hossain Shanto
Shanto’s consistency and ability to play long innings make him the most likely top-scorer. His form suggests another 40+ score is on the cards.
Probable Bowler: Tanzim Hasan Sakib
Sakib has been effective with the new ball and in the death overs. His knack for picking up wickets at crucial moments makes him the standout bowling option.
Also Check For More: Bangladesh Premier League Prediction
Match Prediction
Considering current form, squad balance, and confidence levels, the Rajshahi Warriors vs Noakhali Express prediction strongly favors Rajshahi Warriors. Noakhali Express may compete, but unless they address their batting issues, Rajshahi should control the game.
Final Prediction: Rajshahi Warriors 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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