Sylhet Titans vs Noakhali Express Match Preview – January 5, 2026

Match Details

• Teams: Sylhet Titans vs Noakhali Express
• Date: Monday, January 5, 2026
• Time: 07:00 GMT / 12:30 PM local time
• Venue: Sylhet International Cricket Stadium

Match Overview

As the 2025-26 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) enters a crucial phase, Sylhet Titans and Noakhali Express are set to clash at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. This encounter is a key fixture in the league stage, with both teams vying for a strong position in the upcoming knockout stages.

The Titans, led by the experienced Shakib Al Hasan, have shown consistency throughout the season, bolstered by a balanced squad of international and domestic stars. On the other hand, Noakhali Express, captained by Mashrafe Mortaza, have been a surprise package this season, picking up wins with a potent bowling attack and a gritty lower-order batting effort.

Recent Form and Performance

Sylhet Titans

Sylhet Titans have had a mixed start to the tournament. They have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in tight chase situations, and their middle-order, led by Tamim Iqbal and Andre Russell, has been a reliable force. The Titans' spin department, featuring the likes of Mustafizur Rahman and Shoriful Islam, has been effective on Sylhet’s turning track.

Recent 5 Matches:

• Win vs Rajshahi Warriors (12/12)
• Loss vs Dhaka Capitals (11/11)
• Win vs Noakhali Express (10/10)
• Loss vs Chattogram Royals (9/9)
• Win vs Rangpur Riders (8/8)

Noakhali Express

Noakhali Express have surprised many with their aggressive brand of cricket. Their top-order, led by Tamim Iqbal and Andre Russell, has been explosive, and their bowling attack has been disciplined and wicket-taking. With players like Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman in their ranks, they have the firepower to challenge even the best teams.

Recent 5 Matches:

• Win vs Chattogram Royals (13/13)
• Loss vs Sylhet Titans (12/12)
• Win vs Rangpur Riders (11/11)
• Loss vs Dhaka Capitals (10/10)
• Win vs Rajshahi Warriors (9/9)

Head-to-Head Record

• Sylhet Titans vs Noakhali Express (Last 5 meetings):
  • Titans won: 3
  • Express won: 2

The Titans have historically held the advantage in this fixture, but the Express are known for their fighting spirit and ability to come good under pressure.

Team News

Sylhet Titans

• In: Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, Andre Russell, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam
• Out: None reported
• Probable Playing XI:
  Shoriful Islam (wk), Tamim Iqbal, Andre Russell, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Nurul Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mustafizur Rahman, Shanto, Shamsur Rahman, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed

Noakhali Express

• In: Mashrafe Mortaza (c), Tamim Iqbal, Andre Russell, Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman
• Out: None reported
• Probable Playing XI:
  Mashrafe Mortaza (c), Tamim Iqbal, Andre Russell, Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nurul Hasan, Shamsur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed

Toss Forecast

Given the nature of the Sylhet pitch, which tends to assist spin and deteriorates as the game progresses, the team winning the toss is expected to opt to bat first. However, with the weather forecast indicating clear skies and no dew, the toss could be a crucial factor in determining the outcome.

Pitch Report

The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium is known for its spin-friendly surface, especially in the second innings when the ball starts to reverse and turn. While the batting conditions are decent at the start, the middle and later overs can be tricky for the batters. Spinners will find extra assistance, particularly in the second half of the match.

Fantasy XI Prediction

• Captain (C): Shakib Al Hasan (Sylhet Titans) – All-rounder
• Vice-Captain (VC): Andre Russell (Sylhet Titans) – Explosive finisher
• Top Order Batsmen: Tamim Iqbal (Sylhet Titans), Shanto (Noakhali Express)
• Middle Order Batsman: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Noakhali Express)
• All-rounders: Mustafizur Rahman (Sylhet Titans), Shoriful Islam (Sylhet Titans)
• Wicket-keeper: Shoriful Islam (Sylhet Titans)
• Bowlers: Taskin Ahmed (Sylhet Titans), Mustafizur Rahman (Sylhet Titans)

Match Prediction

The match promises to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams having the firepower to post big totals. However, the spin-friendly nature of the Sylhet pitch could tilt the balance in favor of the Sylhet Titans, who have a more experienced spin attack and a stronger middle order.

Predicted Winner: Sylhet Titans
Margin: 5-6 wickets
Top Performer: Shakib Al Hasan (all-round impact)
Toss Prediction: Sylhet Titans win the toss and choose to bat first.

Conclusion

This Sylhet Titans vs Noakhali Express clash is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams capable of pulling off a win. The Titans, however, have a slight edge due to their spin strength and recent form. Fans can expect a high-scoring match with plenty of action from both ends. Stay tuned for a live update of the match as it unfolds at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
“`