The race for a spot in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-25 final intensifies as Khulna Tigers lock horns with Chittagong Kings in the second Qualifier at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur today. The high-stakes clash will determine who joins Fortune Barishal in the grand finale on February 7.
The match will commence at 6:30pm (BST).
The Tigers stormed into this knockout fixture with a commanding nine-wicket win over Rangpur Riders in the Eliminator. Their bowlers led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Nasum Ahmed dismantled the Riders for just 85 runs before Mohammad Naim and Alex Ross guided them home in a dominant chase. This comprehensive victory has provided the Tigers with a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the crucial encounter.
The Kings on the other hand, suffered a setback in Qualifier-1 losing to Fortune Barishal. Despite their bowlers' efforts, their batting faltered under pressure. However, with a second chance to reach the final, the Kings will be eager to rectify their mistakes and put up a stronger performance against the resurgent Tigers.
Captain Miraz remains the Tigers' x-factor contributing with both bat and ball. His leadership and all-round abilities have been instrumental in their campaign. Mohammad Naim, the tournament's leading run-scorer, will once again be crucial at the top alongside Afif Hossain, Shimron Hetmyer and Mahidul Islam Ankon, while their bowling unit spearheaded by Nasum, Hasan Mahmud and Salman Irshad, will look to continue their dominant run.
The Kings will bank on their skipper Mohammad Mithun to lead from the front, while Pakistan-origin opener Khawaja Nafay and English batter Graham Clark will be pivotal in providing stability at the top. Haider Ali and Parvez Hossain Emon will need to fire in the middle order. The bowling attack featuring Binura Fernando, Shoriful Islam, Khaled Ahmed and Al-Amin Hossain will be key in restricting the Tigers' strong batting lineup.
In group stage clashes both sides came out once as an even-Steven clash is waiting today.
SBNCS pitch has played well for both batters and bowlers, with spinners gaining more influence in the latter stages of the tournament. The toss could be crucial, with the chasing team holding a slight advantage due to potential dew in the evening.