APL 2018, Match 16, Kabul Zwanan vs Kandahar Knights, Preview: A decisive encounter ahead for the Knights

Until a few days ago, the Kandahar Knights were almost believed to be out of the competition. However, a win in their previous game has turned the tables around for the team. Also, the fact that Nangarhar Leopards lost their previous two games now gives the Knights an outside chance of making it to the playoffs.

But, it will not be an easy task. They will have to win at least two of their remaining three games. And if the Leopards win their next against the Balkh Legends, the Knights will have to win all the three games. Having a better NRR than the Leopards is an added advantage.

On the other hand, the Kabul Zwanan will be eager to get a win under their belt having lost both of their last two encounters. After a heart-breaking loss in the high scoring encounter against the Legends, the team will be eager to get things back on track. The visitors have a lot at stake with this match as they cannot afford another defeat at this stage in the tournament.

Playing Combinations

Kabul Zwanan

There are a few changes that the Kabul Zwanans might make with the batting order and the bowling. Luke Ronchi and Hazratullah Zazai form quite a formidable opening pair. Colin Ingram should be slotted in at three where he will have more time to express himself. At four, Laurie Evans will continue to bat. He should be followed by Shahidullah Kamal and Rashid Khan. The bowling department will comprise of Muslim Musa, Wayne Parnell, Fareed Ahmad and Zahir Shehzad, who will provide an additional option if required.

Probable XI:  Luke Ronchi (wk), Hazratullah Zazai, Colin Ingram, Laurie Evans, Javed Ahmadi, Shahidullah Kamal, Rashid Khan (C), Muslim Musa, Wayne Parnell, Fareed Ahmad, Zahir Shehzad.

Kandahar Knights

The Kandahar Knights will be in favour of keeping the winning combination as it is. But, it should be Riki Wessels who should open the innings alongside Paul Stirling. Then, Brendon McCullum will come in followed by Nasir Jamal and Asghar Afghan. Najibullah Zadran will be the next man in the lineup and Karim Sadiq can come in after him. Karim Janat, Mohammad Naveed, Sayed Shirzad and Waqar Salamkheil will form the bowling unit.

Probable XI: Paul Stirling, Riki Wessels (wk), Brendon McCullum, Nasir Jamal, Asghar Afghan (C), Najibullah Zadran, Karim Sadiq, Karim Janat, Mohammad Naveed, Sayed Shirzad, Waqar Salamkheil.

Focus will be on

Rashid Khan (Kabul Zwanan)

Skipper Rashid Khan has failed to deliver for his team with the ball this season. Although he has contributed with the bat, his form with the ball will be critical for the team going forward. In six games thus far, he only picked four wickets at an average of 45 and economy rate of 7.5. For the hardcore fighter that he is, Rashid will be eager to bounce back.

Once he finds his rhythm, he can be devastating. Keep a close watch on him as the encounter against the Knights could be a perfect platform for him to make a mark as the opposition’s batting line-up isn’t in the best of forms.

Mohammad Naveed (Kandahar Knights)

It is a bowler on whom the focus will be on from the other team as well. Mohammad Naved has largely gone unnoticed in the tournament but has been brilliant. He goes about his work silently and has picked five wickets already in the three games that he played. His average of 15 combined with an economy rate of 7 is pretty decent. He took two wickets in three overs and gave away just 10 runs against the Nangarhar Leopards which was first win for his team in the tournament.

Broadcast Details

TV – D Sport

Match Timings: 21:30 IST; 20:00 local

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