Bhutan vs Bahrain, 5th T20I

The 5th T20I between Bhutan and Bahrain at Gelephu International Cricket Ground promises an intriguing finish to the Bahrain tour of Bhutan, 2025. Bhutan, buoyed by home advantage and familiarity with pitch conditions, enter this match with solid momentum, having displayed a resilient batting lineup and disciplined bowling attack in previous encounters. Their head-to-head record against Bahrain has been competitive; however, Bahrain’s aggressive approach in the preceding matches has showcased their ability to adapt quickly to unfamiliar conditions. Bahrain’s key performers include their pace spearhead, who has consistently taken crucial wickets in the powerplay, and their middle-order batsman who has stabilized innings under pressure. Bhutan’s strength lies in their top-order batsmen, who have demonstrated clarity in shot selection and ability to rotate strike effectively. Strategically, Bhutan may look to maximize runs early, exploiting the new ball on a pitch that offers some swing, while Bahrain could focus on containing upfront and accelerating during the middle overs. Fielding will be a key aspect as both teams rely on athleticism to save runs and create opportunities. Given the momentum and home conditions favoring Bhutan, yet recognizing Bahrain's recent adaptability and fighting spirit, the match outcome is finely balanced but edges slightly in Bhutan's favor.

If Bhutan bats first, they are likely to post a challenging total around 160-170 runs, considering the pitch's balanced nature and their strong top order. On the other hand, Bahrain batting first might aim for a similar range, around 155-165 runs, banking on their power hitters to exploit the death overs. The ground dimensions favor stroke play, but early discipline from bowlers will be key to curbing high scores. Overall, scores in the 160s appear par in this contest.

The pitch at Gelephu International Cricket Ground traditionally offers a good balance between bat and ball, providing some early movement for pacers but easing off as the game progresses to favor stroke-makers. Historically, the average first-innings total here has been around 165 runs. Chasing teams have had moderate success, with a win percentage close to 52%, indicating the pitch remains manageable under pressure. Weather forecasts predict clear skies with mild humidity and minimal chance of rain, ideal for uninterrupted play. Key ground records include Bhutan’s top batsman holding the highest individual score of 85* at this venue, while Bahrain’s leading bowler boasts 12 wickets in the last three matches here, including best figures of 4/18.

Matches Played	Bhutan Wins	Bahrain Wins
6	3	3

Team Recent Performance

Team	Match 1	Match 2	Match 3	Match 4	Match 5
Bhutan	W	L	W	W	L
Bahrain	L	W	L	L	W

Bhutan:

Tashi Dorji - The explosive opener has impressed with crisp stroke play and a strike rate above 135 in recent outings.

Phurba Lhundrup - His control in the death overs and ability to pick key wickets make him vital for Bhutan’s bowling attack.

Sangay Wangchuk - Middle-order batsman solidifying the innings with consistent 30+ scores under pressure.

Bahrain:

Ahmed Al Hashim - A dependable middle-order batsman who struck a match-winning 45 in the last match supporting Bahrain’s chase.

Karim Hassan - Leading pacer with smart variations, has taken crucial early wickets in this series.

Fahad Al Sayed - An all-rounder contributing valuable runs lower down and providing breakthroughs with the ball.