**Thrilling Clash Ahead: DCA Malappuram vs DCA Kasaragod in Kerala T20 Men’s Challenger Trophy 2025**
Cricket enthusiasts, buckle up! The third match of the *Kerala T20 Men’s Challenger Trophy 2025* promises to be a riveting encounter as **DCA Malappuram (MAP)** and **DCA Kasaragod (KAG)** lock horns on **May 17th at 8:45 AM IST** at the scenic **St Xavier’s College Ground in Thumba**. With both teams eager to make their mark, this match is set to ignite the tournament with high-octane action.
### **MATCH PREVIEW: A Battle of Redemption and Ambition**
DCA Malappuram is stepping onto the field for the first time this season, and they’ll be looking to make a powerful statement. Fresh, motivated, and ready to dominate, Malappuram’s squad is poised to leverage their balanced playing XI to secure a winning start.
On the other hand, DCA Kasaragod enters this match with a point to prove. Having faced a defeat in their opening game, Kasaragod is determined to bounce back and redeem themselves. With players like **Pallam Anfal**, who scored a crucial 52 runs in their last match, and **Mohammed Kaif**, their reliable wicketkeeper-batsman, Kasaragod will be eyeing a comeback victory.
### **HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORD: A Clean Slate**
Interestingly, this will be the first-ever encounter between these two teams. With no prior history, both sides have an equal chance to carve out their dominance and set the tone for future clashes.
### **WEATHER AND PITCH REPORT: Spin to Win**
The weather forecast predicts **light rain**, which could add an intriguing twist to the game. The pitch at St Xavier’s College Ground is **balanced**, favoring spinners who can exploit the conditions. Historically, the average first innings score here is **147**, and chasing teams have struggled slightly, with a winning percentage of just **59%**.
### **PROBABLE PLAYING XIs**
**DCA Malappuram:** Adith Ashok, AnandKrishnan, Kamil Aboobacker, Krishna Narayan, Shanu Sidan, Adarsh R P, Rishwid Uday, Sibin Girish, Sreerag VK, Nikhil Thottath, Abhiram B.
**DCA Kasaragod:** Pallam Anfal, Isthiaq Poyakkara, Jaganathan MR, Abdul Farhan TK, Mohammad Kaif (wk), Ahammed Ihthisham, Nidheesh B, Sreehari S Nair (c), Abdul Fahiz, Adarsh K, Mohammed Jaseel.
### **FANTASY CRICKET TIPS: Key Picks and Strategies**
Here’s your ultimate guide to assembling a winning Dream11 team for this match:
– **Captaincy Picks:** Pallam Anfal and Mohammed Kaif are the top choices, given their consistent performances and ability to influence the game.
– **Top Picks:** Adinan AT and Anand Krishnan are expected to deliver with bat or ball.
– **Budget Picks:** Nidheesh-B and Sreerag VK are excellent value-for-money options.
– **Punt Picks:** Abhiram-B and Sreerag VK could be game-changers if you’re feeling adventurous.
– **Players to Avoid:** Ahmed Ziyad and Nikhil Thottath, as their recent form and match involvement remain uncertain.
### **EXPERT ADVICE: Dream11 Combination**
For a balanced Dream11 lineup, experts recommend a **1-3-3-4 combination**: 1 wicketkeeper, 3 batsmen, 3 all-rounders, and 4 bowlers. This structure ensures depth in both batting and bowling departments, maximizing your points potential.
### **DREAM11 PREDICTION TEAMS**
**Team 1:**
– *Keeper:* Abdul Farhan-TK
– *Batsmen:* Anand Krishnan (vc), Mohammed Kaif, Isthiaq Hussain Poyakkara
– *All-rounders:* Pallam Anfal (c), Adinan AT, Nidheesh-B
– *Bowlers:* Mohammed Ishaque-P, Asif Fahiz, KM Asif, Sreehari S-Nair
**Team 2:**
– *Keeper:* Abdul Farhan-TK
– *Batsmen:* Anand Krishnan, Mohammed Kaif (c), Isthiaq Hussain Poyakkara
– *All-rounders:* Pallam Anfal, Adinan AT (vc), Sreerag VK
– *Bowlers:* Mohammed Ishaque-P, Asif Fahiz, KM Asif, Abhiram-B
### **FINAL WORD**
As the sun rises over Thumba, cricket fans can expect a gripping contest between two evenly matched teams. Whether it’s Malappuram’s quest for a strong start or Kasaragod’s determination to bounce back, this match is sure to deliver thrilling moments and unforgettable cricketing action. Stay tuned, and may the best team win!
*Prepared by Cricket Enthusiast, [Your Name]*