APL 2018: Match 12, Balkh Legends vs Paktia Panthers, Match Prediction: Who will win the match?

With the inaugural edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) entering its business end, both Balkh Legends and Paktia Panthers have a chance to cement their position in the top four. The teams would now lock horns in Sharjah in the first of tomorrow’s doubleheader. Paktia lost their first match against Kabul Zwanan, but have made a strong comeback

Another victory would take them one step closer to the semi-final. Balkh boast of a lineup, which has depth and the same makes them a dangerous a brute force to reckon with. The experience of Mohammad Nabi has guided them thus far and with a potent bowling lineup as well, they have put themselves as a strong contender to even go on and win the championship.

Pitch

The pitch for the first match at Sharjah Cricket Ground is expected to be a tad on the slower side as dew won’t be playing much of a part. Hence, scoring runs when the ball is hard and new will be of prime importance. The teams would be keen to restrict their opponents to a manageable score after which they can plan their run chase accordingly.

Team Combination

Balkh Legends

The Legends won’t be tinkering with the lineup. With Gayle, Ghani and Munro in the top three, the top order doesn’t look devoid of firepower. Ryan ten Doeschate and Ravi Bopara are the dependable figures in the middle order. Nabi, along with his off-breaks, is a brutal hitter of the cricket leather. Naib, Ashraf, and Alam are the pacers with Qais Ahmed as the spinner.

Predicted XI

Chris Gayle, Usman Ghani, Colin Munro, Ryan ten Doeschate, Ravi Bopara, Ikram Ali Khil (wk), Mohammad Nabi (C), Gulbadin Naib, Mirwais Ashraf, Qais Ahmed, Aftab Alam

Paktia Panthers

Shahzad and Janat are the openers and have been in good form. Cameron Delport is the in-form batsman in the middle order. Samiullah Shenwari comes in next. Sikandar Raza needs to be promoted higher. Shahid Afridi’s experience needs to come to the fore. Isuru Udana will lead the bowling attack along with Ahmadzai. Sharafuddin and Afridi are the tweakers.

Predicted XI

Mohammad Shahzad (C & wk), Ihsanullah Janat, Cameron Delport, Samiullah Shenwari, Sikandar Raza, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shahid Afridi, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Isuru Udana, Yamin Ahmadzai, Ziaw Rahman

Probable top performers

Chris Gayle- Balkh Legend, Mohammad Shahzad- Paktia Panthers

The prediction is for Balkh Legends to win the match.