As the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2025 enters its crucial final phase, the heat is rising both on and off the field. Match No. 29 promises to be a high-stakes thriller as Alleppey Ripples (AP) take on Aries Kollam Sailors (AKS) at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, September 4 at 6:45 PM IST.
With both teams jostling for playoff positions, the outcome of this clash could significantly shape the trajectory of the tournament for each side.
Tight Race in the Middle
Currently sitting at fifth on the points table, the Ripples have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, with a few tight wins tipping the balance in their favour. But consistency has eluded them, and Thursday’s match offers an ideal opportunity to rise into the top four.
Meanwhile, their opponents, the Aries Kollam Sailors, are just one rung above in fourth, and a victory here would provide them not only breathing room but also a real shot at challenging the top three teams in the coming week.
This mid-table showdown isn’t just another match – it’s a potential turning point for both teams in the playoff race.
Venue Watch: What to Expect at Greenfield
The Greenfield pitch has traditionally been a paradise for batters, offering good bounce and carry through to the wicketkeeper. However, under the floodlights, things tend to shift. The white ball is expected to swing early, making the powerplay a tricky period for top-order batters.
With dew likely to play a role in the second innings, the team that wins the toss will most likely opt to bowl first, hoping to exploit early movement and then chase under more favorable conditions.
Team News and Predicted XIs
Alleppey Ripples have relied on experience and balance in their squad. With Jalaj Saxena leading from the front and Mohammed Kaif donning the gloves, AP boast a solid spine. Young guns like Akarsh AK and Arun KA have shown glimpses of promise, while the bowling unit led by Mohammed Nazil and Rahul Chandran will be tasked with keeping AKS in check.
Predicted XI – Alleppey Ripples:
Jalaj Saxena (c), Akarsh AK, Abhishek P Nair, Arun KA, Mohammed Kaif (wk), Akshay TK, Sreeroop MP, Mohamed Enaan, Sreehari S Nair, Mohammed Nazil, Rahul Chandran
Aries Kollam Sailors, on the other hand, bring a mix of flamboyance and control. Sachin Baby, the ever-reliable skipper, is supported by the explosive Vishnu Vinod behind the stumps. Vathsal Govind and M Sajeevan Akhil add depth to the middle order, while Rahul Sharma and Amal AG handle pace duties.
Predicted XI – Aries Kollam Sailors:
Abhishek Nair, Vishnu Vinod (wk), Sachin Baby (c), Vathsal Govind, M Sajeevan Akhil, Sharafuddeen, Rahul Sharma, Amal AG, Pavan Raj, Vijay Vishwanath, Ajayaghosh N S
Key Players to Watch
- Jalaj Saxena (AP): The all-rounder’s experience will be key in navigating tricky middle overs, both with bat and ball.
- Vishnu Vinod (AKS): With a naturally aggressive style, Vinod’s start at the top could dictate the Sailors’ innings.
- Mohammed Kaif (AP): A crucial figure behind the stumps and a dependable batter in crunch situations.
- Sachin Baby (AKS): The skipper’s cool-headed leadership and middle-order calm could be the difference on the day.
Where to Watch
Catch the action live on the Star Sports Network, or stream it via the FanCode app and website. With high stakes and intense rivalries, this is one you won’t want to miss.
This isn’t just a contest between two sides close in the standings – it’s a mental battle to break into the elite of KCL 2025. Both Alleppey Ripples and Aries Kollam Sailors know that a win here doesn’t just earn them two points – it sets the tone for the all-important final stretch of the season.
Also Read: ICC Rankings: The 39-Year Old Star All-Rounder Stuns Everyone To Make It To No.1
