Can Dhaka Capitals bounce back from last season’s nightmare, or will Rajshahi Warriors continue their winning streak? Saturday’s(Today) Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors clash at Sylhet promises fireworks as two teams with contrasting stories collide in BPL 2025’s third match.
Rajshahi arrives riding high on confidence after their stunning opening victory. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s sensational century powered them to chase down 191 runs with ease. Meanwhile, Dhaka desperately needs a strong start after losing their first six matches last season. This afternoon showdown on December 27 could define both teams’ tournament campaigns.
The Warriors look unstoppable right now. Dhaka, however, has assembled firepower capable of upsetting any opponent. Who wins this crucial early-season battle?
Match Details: Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors
The Bangladesh Premier League’s third fixture takes place on December 27, 2025, starting at 12:30 PM IST (1:00 PM local time) at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Live streaming will be available on FanCode’s app and website for fans unable to attend the venue.
This represents Dhaka’s first outing of the season while Rajshahi plays their second match. The timing makes this encounter crucial for both teams as they establish early tournament momentum.
Recent Form: Warriors Flying High
Rajshahi Warriors made an emphatic statement in the tournament opener against Sylhet Titans. Chasing a formidable 191-run target, they completed the mission with eight wickets in hand and two balls remaining, showcasing remarkable composure under pressure.
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with an unbeaten 101 off 60 deliveries. His innings featured ten boundaries and five massive sixes, demonstrating exceptional stroke-making ability. After an early setback when Tanzid Hasan departed for 10 with the score at 19, Shanto steadied the ship alongside Sahibzada Farhan, who contributed 20 off 19 balls.
The real match-turning partnership came when Mushfiqur Rahim joined his captain. Together, they added an unbroken 130 runs off just 71 deliveries, completely taking the game away from Sylhet. Mushfiqur remained unbeaten on 51 from 31 balls, providing the perfect finishing touch to a clinical chase.
Earlier in that match, Sylhet Titans posted 190 for five after being asked to bat first. Parvez Hossain Emon top-scored with an unbeaten 65 off 33 balls, while Rony Talukdar made 41 and Afif Hossain added 33. Despite the competitive total, Rajshahi’s batting depth proved superior.
Dhaka’s Challenge: Breaking the Losing Pattern
Dhaka Capitals carry the burden of last season’s poor start. They lost their first six matches in the previous Bangladesh Premier League campaign, setting a negative tone that haunted them throughout. This year, captain Mohammad Mithun’s primary objective revolves around avoiding similar mistakes and establishing positive momentum immediately.
The Capitals finished with disappointing results last season, managing only three victories from twelve matches. Those struggles exposed inconsistencies in both batting and bowling departments. However, the franchise has strengthened their squad for this edition, bringing in experienced international players to address previous weaknesses.
This will be Dhaka’s opening match of the tournament. Without game time to assess current form, they face additional uncertainty compared to Rajshahi, who already have a confidence-boosting victory under their belt.
Key Players: Warriors’ Weapons
Najmul Hossain Shanto
The Rajshahi captain enters this match in exceptional touch. His century in the opening game wasn’t just about runs – it demonstrated his ability to pace an innings perfectly. Starting cautiously before accelerating in the middle overs, Shanto showed maturity beyond his years.
His strike rate of 168.3 against Sylhet indicates aggressive intent once settled. More importantly, he anchored a successful chase of 191, proving he can handle pressure situations. Dhaka’s bowlers will need early breakthroughs to prevent Shanto from dominating again.
Mushfiqur Rahim
Bangladesh’s veteran wicketkeeper-batsman brings invaluable experience. His unbeaten 51 in the opener showcased clinical finishing skills. Mushfiqur’s ability to rotate strike while finding boundaries at crucial moments makes him extremely dangerous in the middle and death overs.
His partnership with Shanto demonstrated the batting depth Rajshahi possesses. Even if early wickets fall, this duo can rebuild innings effectively.
Sandeep Lamichhane
The Nepalese leg-spinner arrives as a potential match-winner. He recently finished as the leading wicket-taker in the Nepal Premier League, suggesting excellent recent form. Sylhet’s pitch tends to slow down during afternoon matches, bringing spinners into play significantly.
Lamichhane’s variations and experience in Bangladesh conditions make him particularly threatening. His wickets of Rony Talukdar and Hazratullah Zazai in the opening match proved his ability to break partnerships.
Binura Fernando
The Sri Lankan pace bowler provides crucial new-ball threat. He dismissed dangerous Pakistan opener Saim Ayub for 28 in Rajshahi’s first match, showing his capability to strike early. Fernando’s ability to swing the ball and bowl attacking lines could trouble Dhaka’s top order.
Dhaka’s Key Personnel
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
The Afghan wicketkeeper-batsman represents Dhaka’s biggest explosive threat. Recently participating in ILT20 with Gulf Giants, Gurbaz scored 246 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 152.79. His power-hitting statistics reveal remarkable aggression – he struck twenty sixes compared to just ten fours.
This approach indicates Gurbaz looks to dominate from the outset. His ability to score quickly during powerplay overs could set the foundation for big totals. However, Rajshahi’s bowlers will target him early, knowing his wicket significantly weakens Dhaka’s batting.
Alex Hales
The experienced English opener brings proven T20 credentials. Hales has succeeded in franchise leagues worldwide, offering both explosive starts and the ability to build substantial innings. His partnership with Gurbaz at the top could prove crucial in determining match outcomes.
Mohammad Mithun
Dhaka’s captain carries dual responsibility as both leader and middle-order batsman. His experience will be tested in this first match, particularly in managing team nerves after last season’s poor start. Mithun’s decisions regarding batting order and bowling changes could significantly impact results.
Taskin Ahmed
Bangladesh’s premier fast bowler leads Dhaka’s attack. Taskin’s ability to swing the new ball and bowl yorkers in death overs makes him their primary wicket-taking threat. He’ll need strong support from other bowlers to contain Rajshahi’s powerful batting lineup.
Imad Wasim
The Pakistani left-arm spinner provides control and wicket-taking options. Imad’s economical bowling during middle overs helps build pressure on opposition batsmen. His all-round capabilities add valuable depth to Dhaka’s lineup.
Probable Playing XIs
Based on the opening match and squad compositions, both teams are likely to field:
Dhaka Capitals: Alex Hales, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicketkeeper), Saif Hassan, Mohammad Mithun (captain), Shamim Hossain, Dasun Shanaka, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Saifuddin, Taskin Ahmed, Taijul Islam, Maruf Mridha
Rajshahi Warriors: Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Sahibzada Farhan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Yasir Ali, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, SM Meherob, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, Binura Fernando, Sandeep Lamichhane
Both lineups offer batting depth extending beyond number seven, providing insurance against top-order failures.
Venue Analysis: Sylhet International Cricket Stadium
Understanding the playing surface becomes essential for accurate predictions. Sylhet International Cricket Stadium has hosted 61 T20 matches, with teams batting first winning 35 of those encounters. This slight advantage for teams setting targets influences toss decisions significantly.
The pitch characteristics favor batsmen initially but deteriorate as matches progress. Afternoon games, like this Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors encounter, see conditions changing noticeably. Morning moisture assists seamers during powerplay overs, but afternoon heat brings spinners prominently into play during middle and death phases.
The slowing surface makes stroke-making progressively difficult. Teams successfully navigating the 7-15 over period typically control matches, as this phase sees maximum spin utilization. Scores between 150-175 generally prove competitive on this ground.
Tactical Battle: What to Expect
Powerplay Dynamics
The opening six overs could determine match direction. Dhaka’s explosive openers in Gurbaz and Hales will look to capitalize on any short bowling. However, Rajshahi’s new-ball attack featuring Fernando and Tanzim Hasan Sakib can strike early.
If Dhaka bats first, getting through the powerplay without losing more than one wicket becomes crucial. For Rajshahi, early wickets would allow their quality spin attack to dominate subsequent phases.
Middle Overs Control
Spinners will dominate the 7-15 over period. Lamichhane for Rajshahi and Imad Wasim for Dhaka become key figures during this phase. The team winning this battle typically gains significant advantage.
Building partnerships while maintaining scoring rates challenges batsmen on Sylhet’s slowing pitch. Shrewd batting against spin determines whether teams reach competitive or match-winning totals.
Death Overs Execution
Finishing strongly separates winning teams from losers. Mushfiqur Rahim’s experience gives Rajshahi an edge if they’re chasing. For Dhaka, their lower-order batting depth needs proving against quality opposition.
Death bowling requires pinpoint yorkers and smart variations. Both teams possess capable death bowlers, making execution under pressure critically important.
Head-to-Head History
Interestingly, Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors carries zero historical baggage. Following Rajshahi’s acquisition by Nabil Group of Industries, this represents their first meeting as franchises. The head-to-head record stands at 0-0, removing any psychological advantages from past encounters.
This clean slate means both teams approach the match focused purely on current form and squad strengths rather than historical dominance.
Form Guide Comparison
Rajshahi Warriors demonstrated several strengths in their opener:
- Successful chase of 190+ total showing batting depth
- Captain leading from the front with match-winning innings
- Partnership building capability under pressure
- Balanced bowling attack taking wickets at regular intervals
Dhaka Capitals remain untested this season but carry concerns:
- Last season’s six consecutive losses creating negative momentum
- Pressure to deliver immediately in their opening match
- New combinations requiring on-field adjustment time
- Need to prove they’ve addressed previous weaknesses
Match Prediction: Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors
Several factors influence this prediction. Rajshahi’s confidence from their opening victory provides psychological advantage. Their captain’s exceptional form makes them dangerous, while Mushfiqur’s finishing ability offers insurance during chases.
Dhaka faces the challenge of overcoming last season’s poor memories while fielding untested combinations. However, their international stars possess match-winning capabilities. Gurbaz’s explosive potential could change games quickly, while Hales brings experience managing pressure situations.
The venue’s afternoon timing favors teams handling spin well. Rajshahi’s leg-spinner Lamichhane gives them slight advantage in these conditions. Additionally, their recent match experience at this ground provides familiarity Dhaka lacks.
Considering current form, team balance, and venue conditions, Rajshahi Warriors appear favorites for this encounter. Their win probability sits around 60-65%, with Dhaka’s chances at 35-40%.
The predicted outcome suggests a close contest with Rajshahi winning by 15-25 runs if Dhaka bats first, or Rajshahi chasing successfully with 3-4 wickets remaining if they bowl first. Expected first innings totals range between 165-180 runs.
Cricket Fans Can Follow Live Action
Bangladesh cricket enthusiasts can track this exciting match through multiple platforms. Live streaming is available on FanCode’s app and website, while local broadcasters will provide television coverage.
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Tournament Context and Implications
This Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors match carries significant early-tournament implications. Rajshahi seeks building momentum with consecutive victories, establishing themselves as title contenders immediately. Another strong performance would send psychological messages to competitors.
For Dhaka, avoiding last season’s disastrous start becomes paramount. Victory here could transform their entire campaign trajectory, providing confidence foundation for subsequent matches. Conversely, an opening loss might recreate the negative cycle that plagued them previously.
The double round-robin format means every match impacts final standings. Teams finishing top four qualify for playoffs, making early wins valuable for later cushion. Both squads understand this encounter’s importance beyond just three points.
Key Match-Ups to Watch
Several individual battles could determine the overall result:
Gurbaz vs Fernando: The explosive Afghan opener facing Sri Lankan pace bowler’s new-ball movement creates fascinating contest. Fernando’s early wicket would significantly weaken Dhaka’s aggressive approach.
Shanto vs Taskin: Bangladesh’s premier pace bowler challenging in-form captain tests Taskin’s ability to contain quality batsmen. This match-up could define powerplay outcomes.
Lamichhane vs Dhaka’s Middle Order: The leg-spinner’s variations against Dhaka’s middle-order batsmen during spin-dominant middle overs likely determines scoring rates and wickets.
Imad Wasim vs Mushfiqur: Experience versus experience as Pakistan’s crafty spinner bowls to Bangladesh’s veteran finisher. Control during this phase impacts chase scenarios significantly.
What Makes This Match Compelling
Beyond predictions and statistics, this Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors encounter offers genuine sporting drama. The narrative of confident champions facing desperate challengers creates natural tension.
Rajshahi’s opening victory showcased their potential. Shanto’s century announced his arrival as impact player, while Mushfiqur’s support demonstrated team depth. They’ll look to confirm that performance wasn’t a one-off by delivering consistent excellence.
Dhaka carries last season’s baggage plus the pressure of opening their campaign. However, adversity often produces spirited performances. Their international stars possess the quality to upset form predictions, making them dangerous despite recent struggles.
The afternoon conditions at Sylhet add another layer of complexity. Teams mastering spin bowling flourish, while those struggling against it face mounting pressure. This tactical element ensures strategic battles alongside individual brilliance.
FAQ: Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors
When does the Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors match start?
The match begins on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 12:30 PM IST (1:00 PM Bangladesh local time) at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Where can I watch this match live?
Live streaming is available on FanCode’s app and website. Local television broadcasters in Bangladesh will also provide coverage of this Bangladesh Premier League fixture.
Who are the captains of both teams?
Mohammad Mithun leads Dhaka Capitals while Najmul Hossain Shanto captains Rajshahi Warriors.
What is the head-to-head record?
Since Rajshahi Warriors represents a new franchise under Nabil Group of Industries ownership, the teams have never met previously. Their head-to-head record stands at 0-0.
Which team is predicted to win?
Based on current form and recent performances, Rajshahi Warriors appear favorites with approximately 60-65% win probability. They demonstrated strong batting depth and bowling balance in their opening victory.
What is the pitch like at Sylhet?
The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium pitch favors batsmen initially but slows down as matches progress. Afternoon fixtures particularly suit spinners during middle and death overs. Teams batting first have won 35 out of 61 T20 matches played here.
Who scored a century in Rajshahi’s first match?
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto struck an unbeaten 101 off 60 balls against Sylhet Titans, featuring ten boundaries and five sixes. He partnered with Mushfiqur Rahim to chase down 191 successfully.
Why did Dhaka struggle last season?
Dhaka Capitals lost their first six matches in the previous Bangladesh Premier League season, finishing with only three wins from twelve matches. They struggled with consistency in both batting and bowling departments.
What makes Rahmanullah Gurbaz dangerous?
The Afghan wicketkeeper-batsman recently scored 246 runs in ILT20 at a strike rate of 152.79, hitting twenty sixes compared to just ten fours. His explosive approach can quickly change match dynamics.
How many teams compete in BPL 2025-26?
Six teams compete in the Bangladesh Premier League 2025-26: Dhaka Capitals, Rajshahi Warriors, Sylhet Titans, Chattogram Royals, Noakhali Express, and Rangpur Riders. They play a double round-robin format with the top four qualifying for playoffs.
Conclusion: An Afternoon of Compelling Cricket
The Dhaka Capitals vs Rajshahi Warriors encounter promises engaging cricket between contrasting narratives. Rajshahi’s confidence meets Dhaka’s determination in an afternoon fixture where tactical awareness and execution under pressure determine outcomes.
While form favors the Warriors, cricket’s unpredictability means Dhaka possesses genuine winning chances through their international stars. The venue’s characteristics ensure spinners play crucial roles, making middle-over battles particularly significant.
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Saturday’s contest represents more than just another BPL match. For Rajshahi, it’s about confirming title credentials. For Dhaka, it’s about redemption and resurrection. These underlying stories, combined with quality cricket on display, ensure an afternoon worth following closely.