Bangladesh Premier League 2025-26

Noakhali Express vs Rangpur Riders, 29th Match

Sunday, January 18, 2026
12:30 PM IST
Noakhali Express

Noakhali Express

vs
Rangpur Riders

Rangpur Riders

Match Prediction

As the Noakhali Express prepare to face the Rangpur Riders in the 29th match of the Bangladesh Premier League 2025-26, both teams bring contrasting momentum to this exciting T20 encounter at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. Noakhali Express have showcased impressive consistency over their last five outings, securing three wins and displaying a balanced team effort in batting and bowling. Their batting core, led by the aggressive opener Arif Hossain, has been dependable in setting competitive targets, while their bowling attack features crafty spinners adept at exploiting subcontinental pitches. Rangpur Riders, on the other hand, have been a mixed bag recently, winning only two of their last five matches. However, their strength lies in their explosive middle order and pace battery, spearheaded by Moeen Rahman and young pacer Shahriar Alam. Historically, these two teams have faced each other six times in the BPL, with Rangpur Riders winning four matches and Noakhali Express managing two victories, indicating a slight edge for Rangpur. Strategically, Noakhali Express will likely look to capitalize on spin-friendly conditions by attacking early against pacers and consolidating in the middle overs. Rangpur Riders must aim to control the powerplay overs with effective pace bowling and then unleash their hitters to accelerate the innings. Considering recent form, head-to-head stats, and individual performances, the match promises to be closely fought, but Rangpur’s slight dominance in direct encounters and lineup versatility gives them a marginal advantage.

AI suggested match winner Noakhali Express: 46%, Rangpur Riders: 54%

Score Prediction

Considering the Shere Bangla National Stadium’s pitch that typically favors stroke play with occasional assistance for spinners in the middle overs, teams batting first have generally been able to post competitive totals around the 155-165 run mark. If Noakhali Express bat first, expect them to aim for a total near 160 thanks to their strong top order and depth in batting. Conversely, if Rangpur Riders get to bat first, they could leverage their middle-order firepower to reach a target in the 165-170 range, especially if they accelerate well during the back-end overs. Both teams have the capability to chase scores around 160 comfortably but setting a total beyond 170 could prove challenging given the pitch conditions and quality bowling attacks on display.

Shere Bangla National Stadium - Pitch Report

The Shere Bangla National Stadium pitch is known for being a true batting track with consistent bounce and pace, encouraging free-flowing stroke play. Historically, the average first-innings score at this venue is around 160 in T20 contests. The ground has produced a decent chase success rate of about 52%, making it reasonably balanced between bat and ball. Weather-wise, the forecast on January 18 suggests clear skies with mild winds and no rain, ideal for uninterrupted cricket. Within these two teams at this venue, Moeen Rahman holds the best bowling figures with a 4-wicket haul for Rangpur Riders, while Arif Hossain of Noakhali Express boasts the highest individual score of 78 not out. These standout performances underscore their value and influence on this ground, which could be critical in determining the match outcome.
Our betting tips for this match
Back Rangpur Riders to win based on their superior head-to-head record and stronger middle order.
Consider betting on the match to exceed 160 runs as the pitch favours batsmen.
Look out for Moeen Rahman as top bowler; betting on him to take wickets is a smart move.

Noakhali Express vs Rangpur Riders - Head to Head Record in T20

Matches PlayedNoakhali Express WinsRangpur Riders Wins
624

Team Recent Performance

TeamLast 5 MatchesWinsLosses
Noakhali ExpressWWLWW32
Rangpur RidersLLWLW23

Players to Watch

Arif Hossain: The explosive opener has been in fine form, averaging 35 with a strike rate over 140 in recent matches, anchoring Noakhali’s batting.

Shakib Al Hasan: As an all-rounder, Shakib has contributed with crucial wickets and handy runs in the lower middle order for Noakhali Express.

Zahid Hasan: A dynamic spinner, Zahid has consistently troubled batsmen with economical spells and wicket-taking ability.

Moeen Rahman: Rangpur’s leading pacer is coming off a stellar season with multiple 3+ wicket hauls, controlling key phases effectively.

Jamir Uddin: A finisher with immense power-hitting skills, Jamir can change the game in a few overs for Rangpur Riders.

Shahriar Alam: The young fast bowler has impressed lately with pace and swing, emerging as a strike option in the powerplay and death overs.