As we gear up for the 41st match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2024, anticipation runs high as the Comilla Victorians face off against Fortune Barishal at the Mirpur stadium. With both teams showcasing commendable performances so far in the season, cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat in the penultimate league match of BPL 2024.
The Comilla Victorians have emerged as formidable contenders with an impressive record of 7 wins and 2 losses in their first 9 matches. Led by their seasoned players, they've displayed a blend of skill and strategy, making them a force to reckon with on the field.
On the other hand, Fortune Barishal has showcased resilience and determination, securing 6 wins out of their first 10 matches, despite facing a few setbacks along the way. With a balanced squad and a hunger for victory, they are poised to give Comilla a run for their money.
Fortune Barishal boast a very strong top order that can reshuffle their positions depending on the situation of the match.
The betting tip is...
Fortune Barishal will score over 43.5 runs in the powerplay.
Comilla Victorians boast a formidable lineup led by Towhid Hridoy at the top order. With an impressive record of 341 runs in 10 matches at an average of 42.63 and a striking rate of 158.6, he's also one the top run-getters of the season. Alongside him, captain Litton Das adds further strength to the top order, although with a slightly lower average of 20.7, he'll be looking to make a bigger impact with his bat, given his potential.
In the bowling department, the Victorians rely heavily on the expertise of Mustafizur Rahman, who has already claimed 13 wickets in 10 matches with an economy rate of 9.33. Partnering him is Tanvir Islam, who has been equally impressive with 12 wickets to his name at an economy rate of 7.25.
Adding versatility to the squad is the dynamic all-rounder Moeen Ali, whose presence enhances both the batting and bowling departments, providing depth and balance to the team.
Will Jacks has been the X-factor for the team lately, expect a definite start.
Predicted Lineup: Litton Das (c), Will Jacks, Johnson Charles, Towhid Hridoy, Moeen Ali, Jaker Ali (wk), Aliss Islam, Rishad Hossain, Matthew Forde, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahma
Turning our attention to Fortune Barishal's team news, they boast a formidable lineup spearheaded by Mushfiqur Rahim, the team's highest run-scorer. With an impressive tally of 292 runs in 10 matches at an average of 32.44 and a strike rate of 128.63, Rahim's consistent performances have been instrumental in bolstering Barishal's batting unit. Alongside him, Tamim Iqbal, the team's second-highest run-scorer, adds further firepower to the top order with 292 runs at an average of 29.2.
In the bowling department, Khaled Ahmed has been a standout performer, notching up 10 wickets in 7 matches with an economy rate of 9.5. Supporting him is Mohammad Saifuddin, who has been economical yet impactful, claiming 8 wickets in just 4 matches with an impressive economy rate of 6.5.
Additionally, seasoned batters Soumya Sarkar and Mahmudullah have also made significant contributions, both crossing the 200-run mark this season, further strengthening Barishal's batting lineup. And the latest addition, Keshav Maharaj adds more firepower to the bowling unit.
The recent addition of Maharaj has further bolstered the squad.
Predicted Lineup: Ahmed Shehzad, Kyle Mayers, Tamim Iqbal (c), Soumya Sarkar, Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Keshav Maharaj, Mohammad Saifuddin, Obed McCoy, Khaled Ahmed
Based on recent statistics, Comilla Victorians hold a slight edge over Fortune Barishal, having emerged victorious in 3 out of their last 5 encounters, while Barishal has won 2 matches. However, it's essential to note that past performance doesn't always dictate future outcomes.
With the departure of Pakistan players for PSL 2024, both teams have reshuffled their lineups, relying more heavily on top domestic players. This adjustment levels the playing field, making the upcoming clash even more unpredictable.
Given that this is the penultimate league game of the season, both Comilla Victorians and Fortune Barishal are eager to secure a higher spot in the standings. We predict Fortune Barishal win.