Keonjhar Miners and Kataka Panthers are both searching for their first victory of the Odisha Pro T20 League 2026 when they meet in Match 13 at the Barabati Stadium. The defending champions, Kataka Panthers, have had a rocky start with two consecutive losses and an abandoned fixture, placing them under significant pressure to regain their championship form.
Keonjhar Miners enter this contest following a close two-wicket loss against Puri Titans in their previous game. While Subhranshu Senapati remains the core of their batting lineup, the bowling unit has struggled to defend totals this season. With heavy rain forecast for Cuttack, both sides will need to prepare for potential DLS calculations and a shortened game.
Match Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Keonjhar Miners vs Kataka Panthers, Match 13 |
| Series | Odisha Pro T20 League 2026 |
| Date | September 26, 2026 |
| Venue | Barabati Stadium, Cuttack |
| Format | T20 |
Pitch Report
The track at Barabati Stadium typically offers pace and bounce, but recent rains have slowed down the surface significantly. With 100% cloud cover predicted, seamers are expected to find movement early in the innings. Spinners may find it difficult to control the wet ball if rain persists. Chasing is the preferred option here, as the DLS factor often comes into play during rain-interrupted matches in Cuttack.
Probable Playing XIs
Keonjhar Miners
- Rajesh Dhupar (WK)
- Subhranshu Senapati
- Sujal Singh (Probable)
- Ayush Barik (Probable)
- Prayash Singh
- Jogeswar Bag
- Vageesh Sharma
- Debabrata Pradhan
- Jamala Mohapatra (Probable)
- Vimal Kumar (Probable)
- Rakesh Biswal (Probable)
Kataka Panthers
- Sarthak S Prakash (WK)
- Kartik Biswal
- Subham Satrujit (Probable)
- Biplab Samantray
- Sourav Gouda (Probable)
- D Ayush (Probable)
- Abhishek Singh
- Raaz Yadav
- Subhasis Mallick (Probable)
- Md Danish (Probable)
- Somiya Biswal (Probable)
Wicketkeeper Picks
- Rajesh Dhupar: Opens the batting for the Miners and provides a solid foundation. His role is crucial in the powerplay.
- Sarthak S Prakash: A reliable presence behind the stumps for the Panthers who can contribute quick runs in the middle order.
Batter Picks
- Subhranshu Senapati: The most critical wicket for the Miners. He anchors the innings and is the primary run-scorer for his side.
- Kartik Biswal: Has shown aggressive intent in recent matches and provides much-needed stability to the Panthers’ top order.
All-rounder Picks
- Biplab Samantray: The Panthers’ captain brings immense experience and leadership. His medium-pace bowling and middle-order batting make him a mandatory pick.
- Prayash Singh: A consistent performer for the Miners, contributing 33 runs in the last match and bowling high-impact overs.
- Vageesh Sharma: Provides balance to the Miners’ lineup with his dual capabilities in the middle overs.
Bowler Picks
- Abhishek Singh: The leading wicket-taker for the Panthers so far. He is particularly effective with the new ball in overcast conditions.
- Debabrata Pradhan: A key pace option for the Miners who can exploit the movement available at the Barabati Stadium.
- Raaz Yadav: Known for his discipline, he remains a vital component of the Panthers’ bowling attack.
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Biplab Samantray
- Vice-Captain: Prayash Singh
Suggested Fantasy XI
| Player Role | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Rajesh Dhupar |
| Batter | Subhranshu Senapati |
| Batter | Kartik Biswal |
| Batter | Sujal Singh |
| All-rounder | Biplab Samantray (C) |
| All-rounder | Prayash Singh (VC) |
| All-rounder | Vageesh Sharma |
| Bowler | Abhishek Singh |
| Bowler | Debabrata Pradhan |
| Bowler | Raaz Yadav |
| Bowler | Jamala Mohapatra |
Kataka Panthers appear to have a slight edge for this encounter. Despite their slow start to the season, the defending champions possess experienced leadership in Biplab Samantray, which may prove decisive in navigating a high-pressure, rain-affected game. Fans are advised to check the confirmed playing XI and toss results, as weather conditions in Cuttack are expected to be volatile.
