India U19 vs Nepal U19 Prediction: Rain can play a big part

India U19 and Nepal U19 are going head to head in the 33rd Match of ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup at Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein, South Africa on 021 Feb 2024. Rain can play a big part in this game. Who will win this game of cricket?

India has maintained an impeccable record, remaining undefeated during the group stages and continuing their strong performance in the Super Sixes phase. Their recent dominant victory over New Zealand by a staggering 214-run margin not only earned them two points but also bolstered their Net Run Rate (NRR), propelling them to the top of their group standings.

Musheer Khan has been in scintillating form, amassing two centuries and a half-century in his 34 innings thus far. Leading the run-scoring charts with 325 runs, Khan has also showcased his prowess with the ball, securing four wickets, establishing himself as a formidable all-rounder.

Khan's contributions will be crucial in the middle order alongside skipper Uday Saharan, while Adarsh Singh provides stability at the top, boasting two half-centuries, including one in the last match. Singh, along with Arshin Kulkarni, aims to provide a dynamic start to the innings.

All-rounders SS Dhas and Priyanshu Moliya are tasked with the role of finishers, adding depth to the batting lineup. Saumy Pandey has been exceptional with his left-arm spin, emerging as one of the leading wicket-takers in the tournament with 12 scalps, while Naman Tiwari has impressed with his disciplined bowling, claiming nine wickets.

Overall, India's bowling unit has also delivered commendable performances, contributing to the team's success.

Adarsh Singh, Arshin Kulkarni, Musheer Khan, Uday Saharan (c), Aravelly Avanish (wk), Priyanshu Moliya, Sachin Dhas, Murugan Abhishek, Naman Tiwari, Raj Limbani, Saumy Pandey

Nepal commenced the Super Sixes stage with a scorecard showing zero points, and their recent 5-wicket loss to Bangladesh further dims their chances of advancing to the next round. However, despite this setback, the team remains determined to compete with pride in the upcoming matches.

Arjun Kumal has demonstrated his batting prowess with impressive performances at the top of the order and is set to resume his role as an opener alongside Bipin Rawal. Captain Dev Khanal leads the team's batting charts with 152 runs and hopes for improved contributions from teammates such as Aakash Tripathi, Gulsan Jha, and Bishal Bikram.

Subash Bhandari has showcased his versatility as a valuable all-rounder, contributing 80 runs and claiming 9 wickets so far. He leads the team's bowling department with his 9 wickets and will partner with Dipesh Kandel to strengthen the spin attack.

Aakash Chand will kick off the bowling duties, supported by Durgesh Gupta and Gulsan Jha, as Nepal aims to showcase their skills and determination despite their limited chances of progression in the tournament.

Arjun Kumal, Bipin Rawal (wk), Aakash Tripathi, Dev Khanal (c), Bishal Bikram KC, Gulsan Jha, Dipak Bohara, Dipesh Kandel, Subash Bhandari, Aakash Chand, Durgesh Gupta

The team that wins the toss is expected to choose to bat first, considering the favorable conditions at the Mangaung Oval. Historically, this ground has been conducive to batting, with an average first-inning score in this tournament hovering around 280 runs, although teams batting first aim to surpass the 300-run mark. However, as the match progresses, the pitch tends to offer assistance to seamers and spinners, making batting more challenging in the second innings as the ball grips the surface.

The weather forecast indicates overcast conditions with a possibility of rain, potentially leading to a curtailed match. Assessing the current form of both teams, India is strongly favored to emerge victorious in this encounter. Despite the short odds offered, betting against such a dominant team would not be advisable.

Therefore, it's recommended to bet on India U19 to secure the win.