VIDA Kovai Kings will look to carry forward their impressive momentum when they take on Dindigul Dragons in Match 25 of the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2026 at the NPR College Ground in Dindigul on August 21. The Kings have endured an inconsistent campaign so far, but their emphatic 116-run victory over Trichy Grand Cholas in their previous outing would have provided a major confidence boost.

Kovai Kings posted 201/6 against Trichy before bowling their opponents out for just 85. Balasubramaniam Sachin starred with a sensational 77 off 45 balls, while K Deeban Lingesh and RS Ambrish picked up three and two wickets respectively.

The challenge, however, will be considerably tougher against Dindigul Dragons, who enter the contest after a high-scoring defeat to Trichy Grand Cholas. Despite losing by 28 runs via the DLS method, Dindigul had previously shown their batting firepower by smashing 239/5 against Salem Spartans, with Baba Indrajith scoring 73 off just 25 balls.

With the Kings unlikely to make too many changes to a winning combination, here is their predicted playing XI for Match 25.

1. S Radhakrishnan

S Radhakrishnan is likely to continue at the top of the order. The left-handed batter made an explosive 24 off just 12 deliveries against Trichy, striking at 200. His ability to attack the new ball gives Kovai an aggressive option during the Powerplay.

He will be expected to provide another quick start alongside Suresh Lokeshwar and put pressure on Dindigul’s opening bowlers.

2. Suresh Lokeshwar (WK)

Suresh Lokeshwar should retain his place as the wicketkeeper-opener. He scored 12 off nine balls in the previous match and has been a regular member of the Kings’ batting combination.

His primary responsibility will be to complement Radhakrishnan and ensure that Kovai make the most of the fielding restrictions.

3. Balasubramaniam Sachin

Balasubramaniam Sachin is arguably the player most likely to attract attention after his brilliant performance in the previous game. He smashed 77 off 45 balls, including six fours and four sixes, at a strike rate of 171.11.

His ability to build an innings while maintaining an attacking tempo makes him an important part of the Kovai batting unit. Another substantial contribution from him could put the Dragons under pressure.

4. Andre Siddarth

Andre Siddarth is expected to occupy the No. 4 position. The young batter has been a regular feature of Kovai’s top order and provides a combination of strokeplay and stability.

He scored a quick nine off six deliveries in the previous match and will be looking for a bigger contribution against Dindigul.

5. Shahrukh Khan (C)

Captain Shahrukh Khan remains one of the most important players in the Kovai Kings lineup. The powerful middle-order batter can change the course of a game within a few overs and is particularly dangerous during the death overs.

Shahrukh scored 17 off 13 balls in the previous match. With Dindigul possessing experienced bowlers, his ability to accelerate late in the innings could prove decisive.

6. Kta Madhava Prasad

Madhava Prasad could continue in the lower middle order after producing an impressive unbeaten 38 off 24 balls against Trichy. His innings included two fours and two sixes and provided the finishing impetus required to take Kovai beyond 200.

His ability to score quickly without losing his wicket gives Shahrukh an excellent finishing option.

7. RS Ambrish

RS Ambrish should retain his place as a genuine all-round option. He contributed 18 off eight balls in the previous match and then returned figures of 2/22 from three overs.

His ability to contribute in both departments gives Kovai greater flexibility, particularly if the team wants to strengthen either its batting or bowling during the game.

8. K Deeban Lingesh

K Deeban Lingesh was one of the standout performers in Kovai’s massive win over Trichy. The bowling all-rounder claimed three wickets for 24 runs from 3.1 overs and played a major role in dismantling the opposition batting lineup.

He should therefore be a certain starter against Dindigul.

9. M Siddharth

Left-arm spinner Manimaran Siddharth is likely to retain his place in the XI. His ability to bowl economically and extract assistance from the surface makes him an important middle-overs option.

Against a Dindigul batting order containing aggressive players such as Baba Indrajith and Shivam Singh, Siddharth will have to maintain disciplined lengths.

10. G Kishoor

G Kishoor should continue as one of the Kings’ specialist bowling options. He has already shown his wicket-taking ability during the tournament and provides Shahrukh with another reliable bowling option.

His role could become especially important during the Powerplay and middle overs, when Kovai will look to restrict Dindigul’s scoring rate.

11. Jhatavedh Subramanyan

Jhatavedh Subramanyan is expected to complete the bowling attack. The pacer picked up wickets in Kovai’s previous outing and offers the side another seam-bowling option.

His ability to strike early and bowl at different stages of the innings will be crucial against Dindigul’s dangerous top order.

VIDA Kovai Kings’ predicted playing XI

S Radhakrishnan, Suresh Lokeshwar (WK), Balasubramaniam Sachin, Andre Siddarth, Shahrukh Khan (C), Kta Madhava Prasad, RS Ambrish, K Deeban Lingesh, M Siddharth, G Kishoor, Jhatavedh Subramanyan