How These Bowlers Can Change the Game in BHU vs BHR, 2nd T20I | Bahrain tour of Bhutan 2025

The second game of the 2025 Tour will have all of the usual elements to make for a good Twenty20 International (T20I); however, it is the element of mystery of which unit will crack first that adds another layer to this encounter between Bahrain and Bhutan. At a time when Twenty20 Internationals are increasingly about Sixes, Match Ups, Batting Data Science in many ways, this is a contest where the edge could be derived from three bowlers operating in completely different Rhythms. Sonam Yeshey is Bhutan’s most consistent Short Format bowler. The counter by Bahrain comes in the form of two different types of bowlers: the discipline of Asif Shaikh and the experience of Imran Khan.

Sonam Yeshey’s Grip on the Middle Overs

While Sonam Yeshey’s statistics appear to tell an economic tale, it is his rhythmic approach that truly tells the story. With an average of 21.7, he does not typically get clusters of wickets; however, with the same frequency, he creates hesitation in batters. The hesitation occurs when there is enough grip and drift to make a batter wait for the ball, and in these situations, Yeshey will force them to overhit the ball. It is in large part the combination of the “push, prod, misread, and eventually miscue” pattern that Yeshey has created in bowling 4/31; as such, against Bahrain’s middle order (especially those who like to take their time and see how many runs they can score off fast bowlers), Yeshey’s ability to bowl conservative overs could define the tempo of the batting team.

Asif Shaikh’s Understated Disruption

Though Bahrain frequently uses express intent to get wickets, they can be structured through the bowling of Asif Shaikh. His ability to take wickets at an average of 1 every 52 balls across ten games shows he is able to bowl sharply with movement at the start of a game, and use good variation to pick up wickets as the game develops. He has not yet produced a major spell (he does not have a four-wicket haul, nor has there been a “moment” that will go viral); however, his best performance was 3 for 26, which is the type of seam bowling performance Bahrain is going to require to remove the unpredictability of Bhutan’s top order batting line-up. If Bhutan’s top order batsmen start tentatively, then Asif is the most likely bowler to break them open.

Imran Khan’s Battle With His Own Economy

The fact that Imran Khan has taken 45 wickets in 49 T20I games is an example of durability, but also his economy rate of 7.15 is indicative of the fine line between taking important wickets for Bahrain and leaking too many runs due to being forced back into defensive positions. As a result, Imran is probably the most interesting bowler going into the second T20I game. If he finds some rhythm, then his 4/16 can be game-changing. If he just falls one run short, then the Bhutan batsmen will take advantage. Whether Imran Khan’s bowling performance swings the game, it will likely do so because it could either lead to a collapse for Bahrain or allow Bhutan to gain momentum.

Key Takeaway

The bowlers who control tempo will control the match.

FAQs

What makes Sonam Yeshey crucial for Bhutan?

His low economy and ability to dictate the middle overs give Bhutan rare stability.

Why is Imran Khan a high-impact bowler for Bahrain?

Because his spells tend to produce either breakthroughs or run surges — nothing in between.

How can Asif Shaikh influence the power play?

By bringing movement and variations that challenge Bhutan’s top-order timing.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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