Simhadri Vizag Lions vs Royals of Rayalaseema – Match Preview | Andhra Premier League 2025

Date: August 15, 2025
Time: 09:00 GMT (1:30 PM IST)
Venue: Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam
Format: T20
League: Andhra Premier League 2025

Match Overview

The Andhra Premier League 2025 continues to deliver high-octane T20 action, and on August 15, 2025, two of the league’s most promising teams will face off at the ACAVDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Simhadri Vizag Lions will take on Royals of Rayalaseema in a crucial encounter that could shape their playoff aspirations.

This will be the first-ever meeting between these two teams, adding an element of unpredictability to the contest. With the weather forecast indicating heavy rain, the match could be affected, and players will need to be at their best to adapt to the conditions.

Team Analysis

Simhadri Vizag Lions

Captain: Ricky Bhui
Key Players: Ricky Bhui, Bailapudi Yeswanth, Chennuboina Kumar, Kogatam Haneesh Reddy, Roshan Kumar

The Simhadri Vizag Lions have had a mixed run in recent games, with one win and two losses in their last three matches. Their batting has been inconsistent, often collapsing in the middle overs, while the bowling has shown signs of improvement, especially with Bailapudi Yeswanth picking up 4 wickets in their last game at an economy rate of 3.75.

Ricky Bhui, the captain and key batter, has been a consistent performer for the Lions, scoring 145 runs at an average of 72.50 so far. His leadership and form will be crucial for the side.

Predicted Playing XI:
Abhishek Reddy, Kogatam Haneesh Reddy, Marathala Dhanush, Ricky Bhui (wk), Bailapudi Yeswanth, Chennuboina Kumar, Tripurana Vijay, Roshan Kumar, Dharani Kumar, Shaik Kamil, Kavuri Saiteja.

Winning Chances: 44%
Form: Inconsistent batting, improving bowling.

Royals of Rayalaseema

Captain: Shaik Rasheed
Key Players: Shaik Rasheed, Jagarlapudi Ram, Dhruva Kumar Reddy, Manoj Kumar, Vinukonda Venu

The Royals of Rayalaseema come into this match with better form and confidence. They have won one of their last three matches and boast a competent batting lineup, with Shaik Rasheed leading the charge. The captain has scored 141 runs at an average of 47 and has been the backbone of the team’s scoring.

The bowling department, led by Jagarlapudi Ram, has been a key strength, with the pacer taking multiple wickets in tight situations. The team's all-round performance and better consistency in recent matches give them an edge.

Predicted Playing XI:
Dhruva Kumar Reddy, Manoj Kumar, Vinukonda Venu, Shaik Rasheed (wk/c), Jagarlapudi Ram, TBC, TBC, TBC, TBC, TBC, TBC.

Winning Chances: 56%
Form: Stable batting, effective bowling.

Head-to-Head

• Previous Matches: None
• First Meeting: This will be the inaugural clash between the two teams.

Recent Form

Simhadri Vizag Lions

• August 12, 2025: Defeated Vijayawada Sunshiners
• August 11, 2025: Lost to Kakinada Kings
• August 9, 2025: Lost to Tungabhadra Warriors

Royals of Rayalaseema

• August 13, 2025: Defeated Tungabhadra Warriors
• August 10, 2025: Lost to Bhimavaram Bulls
• August 9, 2025: Lost to Vijayawada Sunshiners

Weather Forecast

• Condition: Heavy rain expected
• Impact: Possible disruptions, including delays or a reduced-over game
• Adaptability: Players must be ready to adjust their strategy depending on pitch and weather conditions.

Key Matchups

1. Ricky Bhui vs Jagarlapudi Ram – A battle between the Lions' key batter and the Rayalaseema's star bowler.
2. Shaik Rasheed vs Bailapudi Yeswanth – Clash of captains and match-winners.
3. Middle Order vs Death Overs – How both teams handle the middle overs and the final stretch could be pivotal.

Prediction

With better form and a stronger all-round performance, the Royals of Rayalaseema are slight favorites to win this encounter. However, the Simhadri Vizag Lions, led by the in-form Ricky Bhui, can't be ruled out, especially in a rain-affected game where unpredictability plays a big role.

Prediction:
Royals of Rayalaseema to win.

Where to Watch

Live Streaming: Fancode
TV Broadcast: Sony Sports Network

Final Word

This is a fascinating clash between two teams with contrasting form. The Royals of Rayalaseema carry the momentum, but the Simhadri Vizag Lions have the talent and determination to pull off a surprise. With rain looming and the pitch in question, it promises to be an exciting and unpredictable encounter in the heart of Visakhapatnam.