The Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu is set to witness an exhilarating contest as Hong Kong (HK) takes on Nepal (NEP) in Match 2 of the Nepal T20I Triangular Series. This series, which also features the United Arab Emirates, promises intense competition on the cricketing field. With the head-to-head record currently locked at 1-1 between Hong Kong and Nepal, expectations are running high for this encounter.
Hong Kong’s Recent Performance:
Hong Kong’s last T20I outing was a challenging encounter against Pakistan during the Asia Games. Despite their valiant efforts, Pakistan secured a convincing victory with a 68-run margin. Notable performances included Babar Hayat’s gritty contribution of 29 runs, Ayush Shukla’s four-wicket haul, and Mohammad Ghazanfar’s three-wicket effort. These displays showcased Hong Kong’s resilience and mettle on the field.
Nepal’s Recent Success:
On the flip side, Nepal is entering the match with a boost of confidence after their recent face-off against the United Arab Emirates in the same series. In a thrilling contest, Nepal emerged victorious with a resounding seven-wicket win. Rohit Paudel’s impressive 51-run innings and Karan KC’s impactful three-wicket haul played pivotal roles in Nepal’s success.
Match Information:
- Match: Hong Kong vs. Nepal, Match 2
- Series: Nepal T20I Triangular Series
- Date: October 19, 2023
- Time: 10:45 AM IST
- Venue: Mulpani Cricket Ground, Kathmandu
PROBABLE PLAYING XI
Hong Kong
Babar Hayat, Martin Coetzee, Nizakat Khan (C), Aizaz Khan, Ehsan Khan, Yasim Murtaza, Haroon Arshed, Zeeshan Ali (wk), Nasrulla Rana, Ayush Shukla, Mohammad Ghazanfar
BENCH: A Gorawara, SS McKechnie, Raag Kapur, Anshuman Rath
Nepal
K Bhurtel, Rohit Kumar Paudel (C), S Jora, Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla, Asif Sheikh (wk), Gulshan Kumar Jha, Karan KC, A Bohara, Sompal Kami, M Dhakal
BENCH: Binod Bhandari, LB Bam, Bibek Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, S Dhakal, S Tamang, Pratis GC, Sandeep Lamichhane
Weather Conditions:
The weather report for the match indicates overcast conditions at the stadium, with a temperature of 14.9°C and high humidity of 94%. While the weather may bring challenges, it adds an element of unpredictability to the game.
Pitch Report:
The Mulpani Cricket Ground’s pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest, providing opportunities for both batsmen and pacers. The pacers are likely to find assistance from the pitch, while the batsmen will have the chance to make their mark. Chasing seems to be the preferred strategy, making the game even more intriguing.
Key Player Picks:
Captains:
- Dipendra Singh Airee (NEP | ALL): A match-winner for Nepal, Dipendra Singh Airee, has a knack for performing under pressure. He has accumulated 1227 runs and taken 24 wickets in T20I matches.
- Yasim Murtaza (HKG | ALL): Known for his aggressive style, Yasim Murtaza is a dependable force in Hong Kong’s top order. He has scored 272 runs and taken 10 wickets in T20I matches.
Top Picks:
- Karan KC (NEP | BOWL): Karan KC’s aggressive style and his ability to take crucial wickets, especially in the death overs, make him a game-changer for Nepal. He has scored 307 runs and taken 65 wickets in T20I matches.
- Haroon Arshad (HKG | ALL): Haroon Arshad is a solid contributor with both bat and ball, making him a valuable asset. He has scored 330 runs and taken 20 wickets in T20I matches.
Budget Pick:
- Kushal Malla (NEP | ALL): Kushal Malla has displayed a mature approach to his batting, anchoring the innings and providing stability to Nepal’s top order. He has scored 407 runs in T20I matches.
- Nasrulla Rana (HKG | BOWL): Nasrulla Rana’s ability to consistently take crucial wickets at pivotal moments makes him a key figure in Hong Kong’s bowling lineup. He has taken 23 wickets in T20I matches.
Avoid Having These Players in Your Fantasy Sports Team:
- Martin Coetzee (HKG | BAT): His recent batting performances have been unimpressive, making him a player to avoid in your fantasy team.
- Mousom Dhakal (NEP | BOWL): His economy rate in the last match was unimpressive, making him another player to avoid in your fantasy team.
HEAD TO HEAD
- WICKET KEEPER: Asif Sheikh
- BATTER: Babar Hayat, Rohit Kumar Paudel
- ALL ROUNDER: Nizakat Khan, Yasim Murtaza, Haroon Arshed, Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla
- BOWLER: Nasrulla Rana, Karan KC, Sompal Kami
MEGA LEAGUE
- WICKET KEEPER: Zeeshan Ali, Asif Sheikh
- BATTER: K Bhurtel
- ALL ROUNDER: Yasim Murtaza, Haroon Arshed, Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla
- BOWLER: Nasrulla Rana, Ehsan Khan, Karan KC, A Bohara
