Bhutan vs Bahrain T20I Match Preview – 9 December 2025

Match Details

• Teams: Bhutan vs Bahrain
• Venue: Gelephu International Cricket Ground
• Date & Time: 9 December 2025, 9:30 AM IST / 03:30 GMT
• Format: T20 International
• Series: Bahrain Tour of Bhutan 2025
• Match: 2nd T20I of the 5-match series

Series Overview

The 2025 Bahrain Tour of Bhutan marks a significant event in the regional cricket calendar. The series consists of five T20Is, all to be played at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground. The first T20I took place on 8 December, setting the stage for the second encounter on 9 December.

Bhutan, ranked 80th in the ICC Men’s T20I rankings, will be eager to prove themselves on home soil against a stronger Bahrain side, who currently hold the 26th position in the rankings. Despite the gap in rankings, the home advantage and the potential for a tight contest make this match an intriguing one.

Key Players to Watch

Bhutan

• Thinley Jamtsho – A key all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
• Jigme Singye – One of the senior leaders in the squad, expected to guide the team with experience.
• Sonam Yeshey – Has shown promise with the bat and could be instrumental in setting a competitive total.
• Karma Dorji – A reliable bowler, particularly in the middle overs, and a potential wicket-taker.

Bahrain

• Ahmer Bin Nasir (WK) – The wicketkeeper-batter is one of the mainstays of the Bahrain side, providing stability at the top or middle order.
• Abdul Majid – A consistent performer with both bat and ball, likely to lead the batting charge.
• Ali Dawood – A versatile all-rounder whose ability to bowl tight lines and score quick runs could be crucial.
• Rizwan Butt – A left-arm fast bowler with decent pace and control, expected to be a key figure in the middle overs.
• Prashant Kurup (WK) – A dependable second option in the batting lineup and a solid gloveman.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Gelephu International Cricket Ground is known for being a balanced pitch, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers. The conditions are generally good during the day, with minimal humidity expected. The toss could be a pivotal factor, with the team batting first having the advantage of setting a target on a pitch that could support a competitive score.

Team Form and Head-to-Head

Bahrain have historically held an edge over Bhutan, thanks to a stronger and more experienced squad. However, home advantage and the passionate support from the local crowd could give Bhutan a fighting chance. The result of the first T20I will likely influence the momentum for the second match, with both teams vying to take control of the series.

Match Prediction and Fantasy Insights

Prediction: Bahrain are slight favorites in this match, thanks to their higher ranking and more experienced squad. However, Bhutan’s home advantage and the performance of key players like Thinley Jamtsho and Sonam Yeshey could make this a closely contested game.

Toss Forecast: Bahrain are expected to win the toss and choose to bat first, aiming to post a challenging total on a pitch that could support a high score.

Fantasy Tips:

• Captain/Wicketkeeper: Ahmer Bin Nasir (Bahrain) – Consistent performer and key batter.
• All-rounder: Ali Dawood (Bahrain) – Offers both bat and ball.
• Wicketkeeper: Prashant Kurup (Bahrain) – A reliable second option in the batting lineup.
• Batter: Thinley Jamtsho (Bhutan) – Can change the game with a quick innings.
• Bowler: Karma Dorji (Bhutan) – A reliable performer in the middle overs.

Final Thoughts

The second T20I of the series between Bhutan and Bahrain promises to be an exciting contest. While Bahrain may have the upper hand in terms of squad strength, Bhutan's home advantage and the potential for a strong batting display could see them pull off an upset. The toss and early momentum will likely decide the outcome, making it a must-watch match for cricket fans.

Catch the action at 9:30 AM IST (03:30 GMT) at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground.
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