Cricket Prediction | BUL vs GIBR | Bulgaria Tri-Nation T20I Series 2025 | 1st Match | July 10 – Can GIBR Silence the Home Crowd?

BUL vs GIBR Match Analysis

The opening clash of the Bulgaria Tri-Nation T20I Series will take place on July 10, 2025, at the National Sports Academy Ground in Sofia. The match will kick off at 2:00 PM according to local time.

Bulgaria enters this series seeking to rebuild and redeem itself after recent struggles on the European circuit. Their squad features a mix of domestic veterans and overseas-based talent, led by the experienced Prakash Mishra.

Gibraltar, under the leadership of Iain Latin, has shown glimpses of promise in recent matches. Their batting unit looks far more composed, with players like Harry Pile and Nikhil Advani contributing regularly.

Bulgaria vs Gibraltar Team Preview & Squads

Bulgaria

In a team of changing faces, Prakash remains the constant—a metronome of experience and fire. Known for his steady middle-order batting and part-time spin, Mishra brings a calming influence to an otherwise unpredictable side.

Bulgaria’s batting depth is a concern. While the likes of Zeerak Chughtai and Agagyul Ahmadhel have the flair, the team often lacks partnerships and stability in the top and middle order. Their dependency on a few key names has hurt them in pressure chases.

The bowling attack has promise, particularly with seamers like Jakob Gul and spinners such as Isa Zaroo. However, consistency in line and variations remains a work in progress. They will need to focus on powerplay breakthroughs to rattle Gibraltar early.

BUL last featured in a T20I match against Finland during the Europe Qualifier C. Finland posted a mammoth 199/8, capitalizing on loose Bulgarian bowling in the death overs. In response, Bulgaria could only manage 74/9 in their 20 overs, struggling against disciplined Finnish pace and spin. The 125-run defeat highlighted serious concerns in both departments.

Bulgaria Squad

Bulgaria Squad

Agagyul Ahmadhel, Firas Hussain, Zeerak Chughtai, Chris Lakov, Dimo Nikolov, Isa Zaroo, Ivaylo Katzarski, Jakob Gul, Joshua Dowling, Oscar Duff, Prakash Mishra (C), Bakhtiar Tahiri, Manan Bashir, Ali Rasool, Gagandeep Singh, Anthony Dowling, Huzaif Yousuf, Danyal Raza, Milen Gogev

Gibraltar

GIBR captain, Iain Latin, known for his grit and all-around abilities, anchors the team with composure and maturity. His ability to read the game and rotate bowlers smartly has often been Gibraltar’s X-factor.

Gibraltar’s batting looks in solid shape, especially with Louis Bruce, Harry Pile, and Chris Pyle forming a dependable core. Their top order has chased targets effectively, and the middle order provides a strong backup. Their strength lies in rotating strikes and punishing loose deliveries.

With bowlers like Kenroy Nestor, Phil Raikes, and Joe Wilson, Gibraltar has developed a balanced bowling unit. They excel in containing runs during the middle overs and picking wickets through smart field settings. Their blend of pace and spin poses a serious threat to any batting side in associate cricket.

GIBR played Serbia in their last recorded T20I at home. Serbia could only manage 106 runs, undone by disciplined Gibraltar bowling. Chasing 107, Gibraltar eased to the target in just 12.5 overs, finishing at 111/2. The 8-wicket win with 43 balls to spare showcased their dominant form and efficient game plan.

Gibraltar Squad

Gibraltar Squad

James Fitzgerald, Andrew Reyes, Louis Bruce, Nikhil Advani, Phil Raikes, Kenroy Nestor, Iain Latin (C), Michael Raikes, Harry Pile, Chris Pyle (wk), Jack Horrocks, Kabir Mirpuri, Joe Wilson, Sean Delgado, Richard Hatchman

BUL vs GIBR Outfield Report

Vassil Levski National Sports Academy, Sofia

The Sofia surface traditionally favors batters early on, offering true bounce and value for shots. Spin bowlers come into play later in the game, with conditions typically favoring them in the second innings. A par score can be tricky to defend if dew settles in later.

Clear skies and a mild breeze are on the cards for a pleasant day in Sofia. The temperature will hover around 26–28°C, providing ideal conditions for a full uninterrupted match. Humidity may slightly increase by evening but shouldn’t affect play significantly.

Historically, first innings totals at this venue have hovered between 140–160. A score above 160 batting first could be competitive, while anything under 130 may be tough to defend. Chasing teams have had slightly better results due to late innings dew.

Bulgaria vs Gibraltar Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five T20I meetings, Gibraltar has had the upper hand, winning four out of five encounters against Bulgaria.

BUL vs GIBR Prediction

According to cricket analysts Gibraltar have a 54% chance of Winning.