Janakpur Bolts vs Karnali Yaks, 28th Match

The upcoming 28th match of the Nepal Premier League 2025 pits the Janakpur Bolts against the Karnali Yaks at the iconic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground. Janakpur Bolts have been consistent performers this season with a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent. Their recent form includes three wins out of the last five games, showcasing a balanced approach in both batting and bowling units. Key players such as Ramesh Thapa with the bat and Sagar Gautam with the ball have been instrumental in their success. On the other hand, the Karnali Yaks have been a tough team to beat at times but have struggled with consistency, winning only two of their previous five fixtures. They rely heavily on the explosive batting of Binod Bhandari and the bowling acumen of Prakash Rana. Historically, the two teams have faced each other thrice in Nepal Premier League encounters, with Janakpur Bolts winning twice and Karnali Yaks once, indicating a slight psychological edge. Strategically, the Bolts often emphasize building a steady platform before accelerating in the later overs, while the Yaks tend to aim for quick runs upfront, placing pressure on the opposition bowlers early. With the all-round capabilities each side possesses, we can expect a contest between controlled aggression (Bolts) and free hitting (Yaks). Considering recent form, past head-to-head results, and the strengths of key players, Janakpur Bolts have a marginal advantage going into this encounter. #### AI suggested match winner Janakpur Bolts: 55%, Karnali Yaks: 45%

If the Janakpur Bolts bat first, given their stable middle order and the typical pitch conditions at Tribhuvan University Ground which favor batsmen after the initial overs, they can be expected to post a competitive total around 160-170 runs. Conversely, if the Karnali Yaks get the first opportunity to bat, their aggressive opening pair could push for a higher initial run rate, but their middle order's inconsistency could cap their total at around 155-165. Considering the ground usually assists batsmen, both teams will look to score upwards of 160 to set challenging targets or chase successfully.

The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground traditionally offers a balanced pitch, with even bounce and good carry for fast bowlers early on. The average first-innings score here in T20 matches hovers around 165 runs. Teams batting second have enjoyed a winning percentage of approximately 53%, pointing to a slight advantage in chasing. Weather forecast for December 7 predicts clear skies with a mild temperature of about 20°C, favorable for a full game without interruptions. Within the two teams, Sagar Gautam has been the best bowler with 12 wickets at an average of 18 in this ground's IPL matches. The standout batsman is Binod Bhandari, who scored an unbeaten 78 here last season, marking the best individual score between these teams on this ground.

Matches Played	Janakpur Bolts Wins	Karnali Yaks Wins
3	2	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Janakpur Bolts	W, L, W, W, L
Karnali Yaks	L, W, L, W, L

Ramesh Thapa: The Bolts’ dependable batsman has scored 220 runs in the tournament, providing stability and consistent starts at the top.

Sagar Gautam: Leading wicket-taker for Janakpur, his ability to swing the ball early and take crucial wickets makes him a key threat.

Kuldeep Singh: A promising all-rounder for the Bolts, he has contributed with handy 50+ runs and key breakthroughs with the ball lately.

Binod Bhandari: Karnali’s explosive opener has a strike rate over 140, capable of turning games with quickfire innings.

Prakash Rana: The spearhead bowler has been economical and consistent, picking up important wickets in the middle overs.

Sabin Shrestha: A talented middle-order batsman for Karnali, showing good form with three 30+ scores in recent matches.