TNPL 2025: The Tamil Nadu Premier League 2025 is heating up as we enter the crucial final stretch of the league stage. On Thursday, June 26, cricket fans are in for a treat as Nellai Royal Kings lock horns with Dindigul Dragons at the Indian Cement Company Ground in Tirunelveli. With the playoffs inching closer, this encounter could play a pivotal role in shaping the top four.

A Do-or-Die Battle for Nellai Royal Kings

TNPL 2025: Currently sitting fifth on the TNPL 2025 points table with just four points, the Nellai Royal Kings (NRK) know that this is a must-win game. With only two matches left in their league campaign, a victory here would significantly boost their chances of breaking into the top four and staying alive in the playoff race.

Arun Karthik’s side has shown glimpses of brilliance this season but hasn’t been able to maintain consistency. However, with a talented squad and home support behind them in Tirunelveli, NRK will be looking to bring out their A-game.

Dindigul Dragons Aim to Seal Playoff Spot

TNPL 2025: The Dindigul Dragons (DD), on the other hand, are in a much more comfortable position. With three wins under their belt already, they are placed third on the points table. A win on Thursday could almost assure them a spot in the playoffs, making this clash all the more vital.

Led by the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin, Dindigul have played with purpose this season, with both bat and ball clicking in crucial moments. They’ll be keen to carry forward the momentum and avoid any slip-ups at this decisive stage of the tournament.

TNPL 2025: Match Details

Match: Nellai Royal Kings vs Dindigul Dragons

Date: Thursday, June 26

Time: 7:15 PM IST

Venue: Indian Cement Company Ground, Tirunelveli

Live Telecast: Star Sports 2

Live Streaming: [to be updated]

Pitch Report: A Batter’s Delight, Spinner’s Playground

TNPL 2025: The pitch at the Indian Cement Company Ground has historically favored batters, especially as the game progresses. The ball comes on to the bat nicely, allowing stroke-makers to flourish. However, spinners are expected to have a say, particularly in the middle overs, where the ball tends to grip and offer turn.

Teams will likely look to bat second if the dew factor comes into play, making chasing a preferable option under lights.

TNPL 2025: Probable Playing XIs

Nellai Royal Kings (NRK):

Ajitesh Guruswamy, Arun Karthik (c), NS Harish, Rithik Easwaran (wk), Athish SR, Muhammed Adnan Khan, Sonu Yadav, Sachin Rathi, Rocky Bhasker, Emmanuel Cherian, Valliappan Yudheeswaran, D Santhosh Kumar

Dindigul Dragons (DD):

Ravichandran Ashwin (c), Shivam Singh, Baba Indrajith (wk), Hunny Saini, R K Jayant, Maan Bafna, M Karthik Saran, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sandeep Warrier, DT Chandrasekar, Ganeshan Periyaswamy

TNPL 2025: Key Players to Watch

Shivam Singh – Probable Best Batter

Dindigul’s opener Shivam Singh has been nothing short of sensational this season. With 245 runs in five innings at a stellar average of 81.67, he has anchored the top order brilliantly. His ability to find gaps, rotate strike, and launch the big shots when needed makes him a key threat for the NRK bowlers.

If Shivam gets going again, the Dragons will be in a commanding position.

Sachin Rathi – Probable Best Bowler

On the bowling front, NRK’s Sachin Rathi could be a game-changer. The left-arm spinner has picked up eight wickets in five matches, boasting an impressive average of 15.38. His knack for breaking partnerships in the middle overs could be crucial in halting the Dragons’ batting momentum.

What’s at Stake?

TNPL 2025: For Nellai Royal Kings, it’s a do-or-die scenario — a win keeps their playoff hopes alive; a loss could end their journey. For Dindigul Dragons, it’s about tightening their grip on the top three and heading confidently into the knockouts.

With high stakes, top performers, and a pitch that promises entertainment, Thursday night in Tirunelveli is set for a thrilling contest.

Who will emerge victorious? Can NRK pull off a crucial win, or will the Dragons roar once again? Stay tuned and don’t miss the action!