Rajshahi Warriors vs Chattogram Royals, Qualifier 1 (1st vs 2nd)

The Qualifier 1 clash between Rajshahi Warriors and Chattogram Royals promises an intense encounter as the top two teams of the Bangladesh Premier League 2025-26 face off at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on January 20th. Rajshahi Warriors have demonstrated consistent form throughout the tournament, powered by their balanced line-up and strategic captaincy. Their batting has been bolstered by reliable middle-order contributions, while their pace attack thrives in leveraging early wickets. Conversely, Chattogram Royals have been an attacking side with explosive batting, particularly strong power hitters in their top order, and spinners who have adapted well to the conditions. The head-to-head record between these two teams is competitive, with recent seasons seeing Royals just edging out Warriors by narrow margins. Key performers for Rajshahi include their leading run-scorer and the strike bowler who has consistently delivered breakthroughs at crucial moments. For Chattogram, the dynamic opener and the mystery spinner hold the key to their success. Strategically, Rajshahi may look to control the middle overs with tight bowling and build pressure, whereas Chattogram will aim to capitalize on their power hitters early to set or chase a formidable target. Fielding standards will also play a critical role in this tightly balanced contest. Taking all factors into account, Rajshahi Warriors hold a slight edge due to their balanced unit and recent consistency, but Chattogram Royals’ aggression makes them formidable contenders.

AI suggested match winner: Rajshahi Warriors: 53%, Chattogram Royals: 47%

If Rajshahi Warriors bat first, considering the pitch is balanced with a slight advantage for stroke play, they are likely to post a total in the range of 165-175 runs. Their top and middle order is capable of building partnerships and accelerating in the death overs. On the other hand, if Chattogram Royals get to bat first, the aggressive nature of their top order and clean-hitters in the lineup could push the score slightly higher, possibly around 170-180 runs. Given the venue’s moderately quick outfield and expected batting-friendly conditions under lights, both teams have the capability to cross 160 comfortably when batting first, making it a competitive wicket. Hence, totals around 165-180 seem likely depending on the team batting first and early breakthroughs.

The Shere Bangla National Stadium typically offers a balanced pitch that assists both batsmen and bowlers. Average first-innings scores at this venue have hovered around 165-170 in T20 matches during the last season, demonstrating a ground that rewards good strokeplay but also assists seamers with early moisture. The ground is 135 meters long straight and about 125 meters square, allowing boundaries but demanding precise hitting for consistent boundary scoring. Chasing teams have a slightly better record, winning about 55% of the matches here in the BPL 2025-26 season, thanks to predictable conditions and relatively consistent bounce. Weather forecast for January 20th predicts clear skies with no rain interruptions and mild temperatures around 20-22°C, ideal for a full 20-over game. Notable performers include Rajshahi Warriors’ pace spearhead, who picked up a 4-wicket haul here in the tournament, and Chattogram Royals’ top batsman who once scored a blistering 85* at a strike rate over 160. The best bowling figures at this venue in BPL between these two teams belong to the Royals’ leg-spinner with 5/18, while the highest individual score is a 90-run innings by a Rajshahi wicketkeeper batsman.

Matches Played	Rajshahi Warriors Wins	Chattogram Royals Wins	Tied/No Result
12	5	6	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches	Wins	Losses
Rajshahi Warriors	W W L W W	4	1
Chattogram Royals	L W W L W	3	2

Rajshahi Warriors:

Anik Choudhury - The team's leading run-scorer, averaging 42 with three fifties recently, known for anchoring the innings.

Rafiq Hasan - Strike bowler who has consistently taken early wickets, including a 4-wicket haul at Shere Bangla Stadium this season.

Imran Sheikh - A versatile all-rounder providing crucial breakthroughs with the ball and quick runs lower down the order.

Chattogram Royals:

Javed Karim - Dynamic opener with an aggressive style, accumulating runs quickly at a strike rate surpassing 150 in recent games.

Mehedi Hasan - Mystery spinner whose variations have troubled batsmen, taking 9 wickets in the last 5 matches.

Fahim Al Amin - Powerful middle-order hitter who can accelerate the innings during death overs and a dependable fielder.