Hampshire vs Sussex – County Championship 2025 Match Preview (23 May 2025)

Date: 23 May 2025
Time: 11:00 GMT
Venue: Hampshire Cricket Ground, Basingstoke
Format: 4-day County Championship (Red Ball)
Series: Rothesay County Championship, Division One
Broadcast: Live Streaming Available

Match Overview

As the County Championship 2025 progresses into its mid-season phase, Hampshire and Sussex are set to clash in a crucial 4-day encounter at Basingstoke. This game holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to climb the league table and secure a strong position in the title race.

Hampshire currently sit 5th in the standings with 79 points from six matches, having won two and lost one. Sussex, meanwhile, are 6th with 75 points, having also secured two wins. The teams are closely matched in form, and a draw could be a realistic outcome, but given the stakes, it's expected to be a fiercely contested match.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Hampshire

Hampshire have shown impressive form in recent matches, particularly in their 5-wicket victory over Warwickshire on 16 May 2025. Their batting lineup has been in good rhythm, while the pace attack, led by Chris Wood, has been effective in breaking crucial partnerships. The wicket at Basingstoke is generally a balanced one, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers, which suits Hampshire's all-round strength.

Key Match-ups to Watch:

• Batter: Liam Dawson (Hampshire) – The captain has been in excellent form with the bat, scoring consistently in the middle overs.
• Bowler: Chris Wood (Hampshire) – A key wicket-taking asset, Wood has the ability to break partnerships and turn the match in Hampshire’s favor.

Sussex

Sussex have had a mixed run of form recently, with a 5-wicket loss to Somerset on 16 May 2025. However, their top order has shown signs of revival, and with players like Luke Wells and Tom Haines in good touch, they have the potential to post competitive totals.

Sussex's bowling attack, which includes Tom Haines and George Garton, remains a threat, particularly on turning tracks. However, the Hampshire pitch is not known to spin, which could play into the hosts' favor.

Key Match-ups to Watch:

• Batter: Luke Wells (Sussex) – A consistent performer, Wells has the ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.
• Bowler: Tom Haines (Sussex) – A reliable seamer, Haines has been effective in both ends of the innings and could be the difference in this match.

Head-to-Head Record

The recent history between Hampshire and Sussex is closely contested. In the last 10 meetings, Hampshire have emerged victorious in 6 encounters, with Sussex winning 4. Notably, Hampshire defeated Sussex by 10 wickets in a thrilling encounter on 3 June 2023. However, Sussex have also managed to win by narrow margins in several matches, including a 6-wicket victory on 30 August 2020.

This head-to-head record suggests that both teams are evenly matched, and the result will likely depend on how well they adapt to the conditions at Basingstoke.

Match Prediction

Predicted Total Score: 555.3 runs (combined)
Expected Match Outcome: Hampshire to win by a narrow margin.

Hampshire’s balanced squad, strong home performance, and the form of key players like Liam Dawson and Chris Wood give them a slight edge in this encounter. However, with Sussex's resilient batting and experienced bowling unit, the match could go down to the wire.

Key Stats & Notes

• Hampshire have won 2 out of their last 3 matches.
• Sussex have lost 2 of their last 3 matches.
• Basingstoke has historically favored teams batting first.
• Hampshire captain Liam Dawson averages 45+ in the last 6 matches.
• Sussex's Luke Wells averages 40+ in the last 5 matches.

Conclusion

The Hampshire vs Sussex clash on 23 May 2025 promises to be an intriguing 4-day battle in the County Championship. With both teams in decent form and a balanced pitch in play, the match could be a tight contest. Hampshire, however, have the slight advantage with their home conditions and current momentum. Cricket fans can look forward to a competitive and high-quality match.

Don’t miss out! Watch the match live at CricketWorld Live Streaming.
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