Durham vs Yorkshire – Vitality Blast 2025 Match Preview (20 June 2025)

Date: 20 June 2025
Time: 18:30 GMT
Venue: Emirates Riverside, Durham
Series: North Group – Vitality Blast 2025
Format: T20

Match Overview

The North Group clash between Durham and Yorkshire promises to be a tightly contested encounter in the Vitality Blast 2025. With both sides vying to strengthen their position in the group stage, this T20 match at the Emirates Riverside is set to be a high-intensity battle between two of the North’s most storied county sides.

The last meeting between these two teams on 15 June 2025 saw Durham secure a 6-wicket win with 12 balls to spare, showing their ability to chase under pressure. However, history is not entirely in Durham’s favor, with Yorkshire having won several key encounters in the last few seasons, including a dominant 106-run win in their recent clash on 8 June 2025.

Team Form

Durham – A Resurgent Side

Durham has shown signs of resurgence in their recent games. After a loss to Worcestershire on 18 June, they bounced back with a 6-wicket win over Yorkshire in their previous meeting. Their ability to chase down targets under pressure, led by the likes of Kasey Aldridge and Finn Allen, makes them a formidable side in the death overs.

However, their form has been inconsistent, with a 3-3 record in their last six matches. Their batting line-up has the potential to post big totals, but the middle order needs to step up consistently.

Yorkshire – A Power-Packed Unit

Yorkshire, on the other hand, has had a mixed run in their last few games. After a 106-run win over Leicestershire, they were edged out in a tight finish against Birmingham Bears. Their bowling attack, led by Harry Brook and David Willey, has been a key factor in their ability to restrict opponents and take crucial wickets early.

Yorkshire’s top order is in good form, and if they can post a competitive total, they have the firepower to chase down any score. However, they need to be more consistent in the middle overs to avoid collapses.

Head-to-Head

The two teams have met over 30 times in the T20 format, with Yorkshire leading the head-to-head with a significant margin. However, Durham has won the last two encounters in 2025, including a 6-wicket win with 12 balls to spare.

Key Players to Watch

Durham

• Finn Allen – The explosive opener who has the ability to change the game in the powerplay.
• Kasey Aldridge – A key all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball.
• Adam Hose – A dangerous lower-order hitter who can accelerate the run-rate in the death overs.

Yorkshire

• Harry Brook – A destructive opener who can dominate the opposition in the first six overs.
• David Willey – A match-winning all-rounder who can swing the momentum with his pace and seam.
• Haseeb Hameed – Provides stability in the middle order and is a reliable anchor in the chase.

Pitch and Conditions

The Emirates Riverside pitch has been a balanced one in recent T20 matches. It offers some assistance to the fast bowlers upfront, but the batters can score freely in the middle and death overs. The overcast conditions and possibility of a slight breeze could favor seamers, making it crucial for the openers to set the tone early.

Match Prediction

The match is expected to be a close contest, but Durham’s recent form and their ability to chase under pressure may give them the slight edge. However, Yorkshire’s depth and firepower could ensure a last-over thriller.

Predicted Score:

• Durham (Batting First): 190/6
• Yorkshire (Chasing): 192/4

Prediction: Yorkshire by 2 runs

Fantasy Cricket Tips

• Captaincy Pick: David Willey (Yorkshire) – All-rounder with match-winning potential.
• Must-include Batsman: Harry Brook (Yorkshire) – High strike rate and aggressive opener.
• Wicket-keeper: Kasey Aldridge (Durham) – Dual threat with bat and ball.
• Bowler: Adam Hose (Durham) – Effective in the death overs.

Conclusion

The Durham vs Yorkshire clash on 20 June 2025 promises to be an exciting encounter in the North Group of the Vitality Blast 2025. With both teams in decent form and a history of close contests, this match could go down to the wire. Fans can expect fireworks, especially from the openers and death bowlers.

Don’t miss the action!
Time to watch: 18:30 GMT at Emirates Riverside
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