Surrey vs Sussex T20 Blast Match Preview – June 18, 2025

Match: Surrey vs Sussex
Competition: Vitality T20 Blast 2025
Match Number: 60
Date & Time: June 18, 2025 – 18:30 GMT
Venue: The Oval, London

Match Overview

As the 2025 Vitality T20 Blast season progresses, the South Division continues to deliver compelling fixtures, with one of the most anticipated matches set to take place at The Oval. Surrey, who finished runners-up in the 2024 T20 Blast, will be looking to build on their recent form and climb the standings, while Sussex, currently second in the division, will aim to extend their strong start to the season.

The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams having contrasting experiences in the previous season. Surrey reached the semifinals after a strong campaign, while Sussex also made it to the last four, showing the competitive nature of this rivalry.

Current Form

Surrey:
Surrey began the 2025 season with a mixed bag of results. After a defeat in their opening match against Somerset, they bounced back with a win over Glamorgan. A loss to Hampshire was followed by back-to-back victories over Kent, showing resilience and adaptability. With a record of 3 wins and 2 losses in 5 matches, they sit sixth in the South Division.

Sussex:
Sussex has been in fine form this season, with four wins in their six games so far. They opened their campaign with victories over Middlesex and Gloucestershire, and despite a loss to Somerset, they have bounced back strongly, including a win over Glamorgan and a rain-affected match against Essex. Their second-place standing in the division highlights their consistency and strength.

Head-to-Head

• Matches Played: 42
• Surrey Wins: 20
• Sussex Wins: 15
• No Results: 7
• Last Meeting (2024): Surrey won

The history between these two sides is balanced, with Surrey holding a slight edge in the head-to-head record. However, recent encounters have been closely contested, and the last meeting at the Oval in 2024 saw Surrey clinch a victory.

The Oval Pitch Report

The Oval is a classic T20 venue that offers something for both batsmen and bowlers. The pitch tends to assist the pacers during the early overs due to the grass cover, making the chase challenging for the first batting side. However, as the match progresses, the surface becomes more batsman-friendly. With boundaries of average length (square boundaries ~65-68m, straight ~70m), the Oval is a neutral ground that rewards good batting and disciplined bowling.

Weather Conditions

The match is expected to take place under clear skies with partly cloudy conditions. After a day of rain, the evening will be dry and pleasant. The temperature is forecasted to be in the high teens, with moderate winds and high humidity. These conditions are ideal for a high-scoring T20 match.

Key Players to Watch

1. Harrison Ward (Sussex):
A dynamic batter, Ward has been in excellent form this season, providing the top-order with stability and aggression when needed.

2. Will Jacks (Surrey):
Jacks has been Surrey’s standout performer, contributing with both bat and ball. His ability to accelerate the innings will be crucial for the hosts.

3. Nathan McAndrew (Sussex):
McAndrew has been a revelation with the ball, offering sharp lines and consistent wicket-taking ability. His ability to control the middle overs could be the key to a Sussex victory.

Predicted XIs

Surrey Predicted XI:

1. Will Jacks
2. Dom Sibley
3. Jason Roy
4. Laurie Evans (wk)
5. Sam Curran (c)
6. Tom Curran
7. Mitchell Santner
8. Chris Jordan
9. Ollie Sykes
10. Nathan Smith
11. Daniel Worrall

Sussex Predicted XI:

1. Harrison Ward
2. Daniel Hughes
3. John Simpson (wk)
4. James Coles
5. Tom Aslop
6. Jack Carson
7. Tom Clarke
8. Nathan McAndrew
9. Ollie Robinson
10. Tymal Mills (c)
11. Henry Crocombe

Match Prediction

This match is set to be a thrilling clash between two evenly matched teams. While Surrey has the advantage of home conditions, Sussex has shown greater consistency this season. The Oval's track is expected to favor the chasing side, and with players like Ward and McAndrew in form, Sussex are predicted to come out on top.

Prediction: Sussex to win

Conclusion

The Surrey vs Sussex clash at The Oval promises to be a high-octane T20 encounter with plenty of excitement. With both teams having strong squads and contrasting styles, fans can look forward to a competitive match that could go either way. The key will be how the teams adapt to the conditions and perform under pressure.
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