In Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024-25 only 2 matches remaining for finals. The first Qualifier between Fortune Barishal (BRSAL) and Chittagong Kings (CHK) is set to take place at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka, on February 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
This match will be crucial as the winner will secure a direct spot in the BPL 2024-25 Final, while the losing team will get another chance in Qualifier 2. Both teams have performed exceptionally well in the tournament, and fans can expect a thrilling contest.
Let’s take a closer look at the match preview, team strengths, key players, pitch conditions, and prediction for this highly anticipated clash.
Match Details
- Match: Fortune Barishal vs Chittagong Kings, 1st Qualifier
- Date: Monday, February 3, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM (IST)
- Venue: Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
Team Preview & Strengths
Fortune Barishal (BRSAL)
Captain: Tamim Iqbal
Key Players: Mushfiqur Rahim, Dawid Malan, Mahmudullah, Mohammad Nabi, Shaheen Afridi
Fortune Barishal has been one of the most consistent teams in the tournament. With Tamim Iqbal leading from the front, their batting lineup looks solid, featuring experienced names like Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, and Dawid Malan.
Their bowling attack is equally impressive with Shaheen Afridi, James Fuller, and Mohammad Nabi, who can take crucial wickets at any stage. Their all-rounders add balance, making them a formidable unit.
Chittagong Kings (CHK)
Captain: Mohammad Mithun
Key Players: Graham Clark, Haider Ali, Shamim Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Wasim Jr
Chittagong Kings have been a surprise package this season, playing aggressive cricket. Their batting strength lies in the hands of Graham Clark, Haider Ali, and Mohammad Mithun, who have been consistent with the bat.
Their bowling unit, led by Shoriful Islam and Mohammad Wasim Jr, has been impressive, with spinners like Arafat Sunny providing crucial breakthroughs.
Head-to-Head Record
When these two teams faced each other in the league stage, both won one match each. This indicates that their strengths are evenly matched, making this a difficult contest to predict.
- Total Matches: 2
- Fortune Barishal Wins: 1
- Chittagong Kings Wins: 1
Pitch & Weather Report
Pitch Analysis
The Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka offers a balanced surface. The average first innings score in the last 20 matches at this venue is around 152 runs. Both batsmen and bowlers will have equal opportunities to make an impact.
- Pacers & Spinners: The pitch assists both fast bowlers and spinners. Fast bowlers can use the new ball effectively, while spinners will come into play as the game progresses.
- Batting-Friendly Conditions: The surface allows stroke play, and a total of 160+ runs can be competitive.
Weather Conditions
- Temperature: 23°C
- Humidity: 33%
- Wind Speed: 2.16 m/s
The weather will be clear with no chances of rain, ensuring a full 20-over contest.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Fortune Barishal
- Tamim Iqbal – The experienced opener has been in fine form and will be crucial in giving Barishal a strong start.
- Mushfiqur Rahim – His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate at the right time makes him a key player.
- Shaheen Afridi – The left-arm pacer’s ability to take wickets early in the powerplay can put Chittagong Kings under pressure.
- Mohammad Nabi – A valuable all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
Chittagong Kings
- Graham Clark – The English batter has been Chittagong’s most reliable run-scorer this season.
- Shoriful Islam – His left-arm pace and ability to bowl yorkers in the death overs make him a dangerous bowler.
- Mohammad Wasim Jr – A promising all-rounder who can provide breakthroughs at crucial moments.
- Haider Ali – The aggressive batsman has the potential to take the game away from the opposition.
Predicted Playing XIs
Fortune Barishal (BRSAL)
- Tamim Iqbal (c)
- Mushfiqur Rahim (wk)
- Towhid Hridoy
- Dawid Malan
- Mahmudullah
- Mohammad Nabi
- James Fuller
- Rishad Hossain
- Taijul Islam
- Shaheen Afridi
- Ebadot Hossain
Chittagong Kings (CHK)
- Mohammad Mithun (c & wk)
- Khawaja Nafay
- Parvez Hossain Emon
- Graham Clark
- Haider Ali
- Shamim Hossain
- Khaled Ahmed
- Shoriful Islam
- Aliss Al Islam
- Arafat Sunny
- Mohammad Wasim Jr
Match Prediction
Both teams have strong squads, but Fortune Barishal has an edge in terms of experience and bowling attack. The presence of Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Nabi, and Mushfiqur Rahim gives them an advantage.
However, Chittagong Kings should not be underestimated, especially with their aggressive batting lineup and strong fast bowling unit. If their key players fire, they can upset Barishal and book a place in the final.
Winning Chances:
- Fortune Barishal – 55%
- Chittagong Kings – 45%
Prediction: Fortune Barishal to win a close contest.
Betting & Fantasy Cricket Tips
For fantasy cricket players and betting enthusiasts, here are some valuable tips:
Fantasy Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Tamim Iqbal, Graham Clark
- Vice-Captain: Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Nabi
Top Fantasy Picks
- Tamim Iqbal – Reliable top-order batsman
- Graham Clark – Explosive opener
- Shaheen Afridi – Wicket-taking ability
- Mohammad Nabi – All-round performance
- Shoriful Islam – Death-over specialist
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The Fortune Barishal vs Chittagong Kings Qualifier 1 of BPL 2024-25 is set to be an exciting encounter. With a ticket to the BPL final at stake, both teams will give their best effort. While Barishal holds a slight edge, Chittagong Kings have the firepower to cause an upset.
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