Bhutan vs Japan 5th ODI Match Preview – 27 February 2026

Date: Friday, 27th February 2026
Time: 02:00 AM GMT / 07:30 AM IST
Venue: TerdThai Cricket Ground, Bangkok, Thailand
Format: ODI (One Day International)

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The TerdThai Cricket Ground is expected to offer a neutral pitch, which should favor the fast bowlers more than the spinners. The weather forecast is clear and favorable for cricket, with a temperature around 29°C, 85% humidity, and a wind speed of 8.2 km/h. Visibility is excellent at 10 km, and there is no chance of precipitation, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted contest.

Possible Playing XIs

Bhutan (BHU):

1. Namgay Thinley
2. Tshering Tashi (WK)
3. Tenjin Rabgey
4. Ranjung Mikyo Dorji
5. Tashi Phuntsho
6. Namgang Chejay (WK)
7. Gakul Ghalley
8. Tashi Dorji
9. Thinley Jamtsho (C)
10. Karma Dorji
11. Sonam Yeshey

Japan (JPN):

1. Kendel Kadowaki Fleming (C)
2. Abhishek Anand
3. Sabaorish Ravichandran
4. Ibrahim Takahashi
5. Benjamin Ito
6. Declan Suzuki
7. Wataru Miyauchi (WK)
8. Charles Hinze
9. Makoto Taniyama
10. Shoma Slater
11. Kazuma Stafford

Team Analysis and Key Players

Bhutan (BHU)

Bhutan has shown consistent improvement in their recent fixtures, particularly with the bat. The middle order, led by Tenjin Rabgey and Ranjung Mikyo Dorji, has been a reliable source of runs. Opening batsman Namgay Thinley has been in fine form, providing a solid foundation at the top.

Bhutan’s bowling attack, while not explosive, is disciplined and can trouble the opposition with tight lines and angles. Thinley Jamtsho, the captain, is expected to lead from the front with both bat and ball, while Sonam Yeshey and Tashi Dorji could provide late breakthroughs.

Japan (JPN)

Japan has been a strong contender in the tournament, with a balanced squad and some standout performers. Sabaorish Ravichandran has been the standout batsman for Japan, with a high strike rate and a knack for anchoring the innings. Ibrahim Takahashi is another key batsman, known for his consistency and ability to rotate the strike effectively.

Makoto Taniyama has been the star of the bowling attack, with a good economy rate and the ability to take wickets at crucial junctures. The spin duo of Wataru Miyauchi and Charles Hinze could also play a significant role, especially if the pitch offers assistance later in the innings.

Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Picks

Top Fantasy Picks:

• Captain: Kendel Kadowaki Fleming (JPN)
• Vice-Captain: Tenjin Rabgey (BHU)
• Must Pick: Sabaorish Ravichandran (JPN)
• Must Pick: Ibrahim Takahashi (JPN)

Injury/Unavailability Updates

As of now, there are no injury updates reported for either Bhutan or Japan. Both teams are expected to field full squads.

Match Prediction and Strategy

Given the neutral nature of the pitch, the toss could be a crucial factor in this match. Whichever team wins the toss and chooses to bowl first may have an edge, especially with the pace-friendly conditions. However, if the batting side can get off to a strong start, they could post a competitive total.

Bhutan’s strength lies in their middle-order batting, and if they can capitalize on the good start from their openers, they could challenge Japan. On the other hand, Japan’s balanced squad and consistent performances in the tournament make them slight favorites, especially if Sabaorish Ravichandran and Makoto Taniyama deliver.

Live Streaming and Highlights

• Live Score: Possible11, Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo
• Live Telecast: FanCode
• Post-Match Highlights: FanCode (Post-Match)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who are the must-picks for fantasy teams?

   • Sabaorish Ravichandran (JPN), Makoto Taniyama (JPN), Tenjin Rabgey (BHU), and Kendel Kadowaki Fleming (JPN) are the top picks.

2. Are there any injury concerns?

   • No current injuries reported for either team.

3. Where can I get the latest team updates and predictions?

   • Download the Possible11 App for real-time updates, team predictions, and fantasy tips.

Final Thoughts

This match promises to be a closely contested encounter between two improving teams. Bhutan will look to capitalize on their home advantage (in terms of familiarity) and strong middle-order batting, while Japan will rely on their balanced squad and key performers to secure victory.

The battle of the spinners and the effectiveness of the fast bowlers will be crucial in determining the outcome. Fans can look forward to an exciting contest under favorable conditions at the TerdThai Cricket Ground.

Prediction: Japan to win the toss and take the game.
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