Papua New Guinea will look to level the series by beating Nepal on 10 September, in the second and final ODI at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, Oman. The two sides last met three days ago for the opening match, where Nepal defeated PNG by two wickets in a low-scoring affair to take the unassailable 1-0 lead.
By returning 4-35, Sandeep Lamichhane starred in that contest. He was assisted by Kushal Malla and debutant Bikram Sob, who wrapped PNG up for a paltry 134 in 33 overs after they opted to bat. Coming to the chase, Rohit Paudel then helped Nepal recover from 82/7 and reach the target with 63 balls to spare.
PNG were simultaneously playing a two-match ODI series against the United States of America. They were comprehensively beaten on both occasions. Their batting looked more lacklustre than their bowling, as they were all out in all three games since 6 September.
If PNG want to win this fixture, Assad Vala has to step up. Tony Ura is yet to find his rhythm as well. From the bowling perspective, Gaudi Toka will be key for them.
Betway Fantasy Tips
– Bet on Nepal. They are much more balanced side compared to PNG, in all three departments.
– Appoint Lamichhane as captain again. He is a safe choice.
– Despite being hit for six sixes in an over by Jaskaran Malhotra of the USA, Toka can be a differential vice-captain option. He can chip in with both bat and ball.
– Among wicketkeepers, pick Kiplin Doriga ahead of Aasif Sheikh. Do not ignore Gyanendra Malla.
Probable XIs
Papua New Guinea: Assad Vala (c), Kiplin Doriga (wk), Charles Amini, Tony Ura, Lega Siaka, Sese Bau, Gaudi Toka, Chad Soper, Jason Kila, Damien Ravu, Nosaina Pokana.
Nepal: Gyanendra Malla (c), Aasif Sheikh (wk), Kushal Bhurtel, Sharad Vesawkar, Rohit Paudel, Aarif Sheikh, Kushal Malla, Sompal Kami, Pawan Sarraf, Bikram Sob, Sandeep Lamichhane.
Prediction
Nepal should have an easy win to complete the sweep.
Blitzpools Fantasy XI
Sandeep Lamichhane (C), Gaudi Toka (VC), Kiplin Doriga, Assad Vala, Rohit Paudel, Kushal Bhurtel, Tony Ura, Chad Soper, Kushal Malla, Lega Siaka, Bikram Sob.