Noakhali Express Aims to Break Losing Streak Against Confident Rajshahi Warriors
Noakhali Express (NOE) is gearing up to put an end to their losing streak as they prepare to face the confident Rajshahi Warriors (RJW) in match No. 17 of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025-26. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet.
Noakhali Express’ Struggles
Noakhali Express has had a tough start to their maiden season, losing all five matches they have played so far. Their latest defeat came at the hands of Dhaka Capitals, who secured a seven-wicket victory over them. The team led by Haider Ali will be eager to turn their fortunes around and secure their first win of the season.
Rajshahi Warriors’ Confidence
On the other hand, Rajshahi Warriors have impressed with their strong performance in the tournament. Currently standing at No. 4 on the points table, they have won three matches and suffered just one loss this season. Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, the team is coming off a thrilling Super Over win against Rangpur Riders, giving them a boost of confidence heading into the upcoming clash.
Match Details
The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium has witnessed pitches that offer a balance between batters and bowlers, with not many high-scoring games. Teams have found success in chasing targets, making the toss crucial. The team batting first will look to set a competitive total of at least 170 runs on the board.
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the second encounter between Noakhali Express and Rajshahi Warriors in the current season. In their previous meeting, Rajshahi emerged victorious with a six-wicket win, highlighting the challenge that awaits NOE in the upcoming match.
Predicted Playing XIs
Noakhali Express (NOE):
Maaz Sadaqat, Habibur Rahman Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Haider Ali (C), Munim Shahriar, Mahidul Islam Ankon (WK), Abu Hasim, Rejaur Rahman Raja, Hasan Mahmud, Mehedi Hasan Rana, Zahir Khan.
Rajshahi Warriors (RJW):
Sahibzada Farhan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mushfiqur Rahim (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Yasir Ali, Hussain Talat, SM Meherob, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Ripon Mondol, Binura Fernando.
Probable Best Performers
Probable Best Batter: Najmul Hossain Shanto
Rajshahi Warriors’ skipper, Najmul Hossain Shanto, has been in outstanding form this season, leading the run-scoring charts with 203 runs in four innings. With an impressive average of 67.67 and a strike rate of 147.10, he poses a significant threat to the opposition.
Probable Best Bowler: Hasan Mahmud
Hasan Mahmud has been a standout performer for Noakhali Express, picking up seven wickets in five matches at an average of 12.71. His bowling prowess will be crucial as NOE aims to restrict the opposition’s scoring.
Match Prediction
Considering the current form and performances of both teams, Rajshahi Warriors are the favorites to win the upcoming match. However, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and fans can expect an exciting contest between the two sides at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Key Match Strategies for Noakhali Express
In order to break their losing streak and secure their first victory in the BPL 2025-26 season, Noakhali Express will need to focus on several key strategies. Firstly, their batting lineup will need to step up and put up a competitive total on the board. Players like Maaz Sadaqat and Soumya Sarkar will be crucial in providing a solid foundation for the team. Additionally, captain Haider Ali will need to lead from the front and play a responsible innings to guide his team to a challenging score.
On the bowling front, Hasan Mahmud will play a vital role in containing the opposition’s batsmen. His ability to pick up early wickets and maintain pressure on the Rajshahi Warriors’ lineup will be crucial in restricting their scoring. Players like Mehedi Hasan Rana and Zahir Khan will need to provide support and pick up key wickets to keep the pressure on the opposition.
Strengths of Rajshahi Warriors
Rajshahi Warriors have shown their strength in both batting and bowling departments in the current season. With batsmen like Sahibzada Farhan and Mushfiqur Rahim in good form, they have a formidable top order that can put pressure on the Noakhali Express bowlers. Their middle order, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, has been consistent in finishing games and posting competitive totals.
In the bowling department, the Warriors have a well-rounded attack with bowlers like Mohammad Nawaz and Binura Fernando who can pick up crucial wickets at pivotal moments in the game. Their ability to contain runs and take wickets in the middle overs has been a key factor in their success this season.
Impact of Toss on the Match
Given the nature of the pitch at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, winning the toss will be crucial for both teams. The team that wins the toss may opt to bowl first and take advantage of any early movement and bounce on offer. However, setting a target and putting pressure on the chasing team has also been a successful strategy at the venue. Captains will need to assess the conditions carefully and make a strategic decision based on the situation.
Player to Watch: Tanzid Hasan
One player to watch out for in the upcoming match is Tanzid Hasan from the Rajshahi Warriors. The young batsman has shown glimpses of his talent in the tournament so far and will be eager to make a big impact against Noakhali Express. His ability to play aggressive strokes and rotate the strike efficiently makes him a valuable asset in the middle order.
Final Thoughts
As the match between Noakhali Express and Rajshahi Warriors approaches, the stage is set for an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting fortunes in the tournament. While Rajshahi Warriors hold the edge with their impressive performances, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and anything can happen on the day. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium as both teams battle it out for crucial points in the BPL 2025-26 season.


