Leicestershire vs Middlesex – County Championship Division Two Preview (29 June 2025)

Date: 29 June 2025
Time: 11:00 AM GMT
Venue: Grace Road, Leicester
Format: County Championship (Test Format)
Pitch Condition: Seam-friendly
Weather Forecast: Sunny with mild temperatures

Match Preview

The County Championship Division Two season continues with a key clash at Grace Road in Leicester, where Leicestershire host Middlesex in a four-day encounter starting on 29 June 2025. This game is crucial for both teams as they aim to climb the table and secure a higher position in the standings.

Leicestershire currently sit at the top of the Division Two table with 155 points, having enjoyed a strong start to the season. However, their recent performances have been inconsistent, with a notable win against Lancashire by an innings and 3 runs back in late May. Despite their high ranking, the Foxes have struggled to maintain momentum in the last few matches, and their winless record in the 2024 season could be a concern.

Middlesex, on the other hand, have had a challenging campaign so far. Sitting in 7th place with 77 points, the visitors are in need of a strong performance to close the gap with the top teams. However, their recent form suggests a side that can turn things around. Middlesex have picked up notable wins in recent fixtures, including a 2-wicket victory over Kent and a 9-wicket win against Glamorgan. With a balanced squad and strong seam bowling options, they are well-equipped to exploit the conditions at Grace Road.

Head-to-Head History

The recent history between these two sides shows a slight edge to Middlesex. In the 2023 encounter at Lord’s, Middlesex emerged victorious by 23 runs under the D/L method. The last meeting in 2025 saw Middlesex at home, but the result was inconclusive. With the current form and the nature of the pitch at Leicester, Middlesex are strong favorites.

Team Form

Leicestershire – Last 6 Matches

• 22/06/2025: Glamorgan vs Leicestershire – Result pending
• 23/05/2025: Lancashire vs Leicestershire – Leics won by an innings and 3 runs
• 16/05/2025: Middlesex vs Leicestershire – Result pending
• 02/05/2025: Leicestershire vs Northamptonshire – Result pending
• 25/04/2025: Gloucestershire vs Leicestershire – Result pending
• 18/04/2025: Lancashire vs Leicestershire – Result pending

Despite a strong win against Lancashire, Leicestershire have not been able to maintain consistency across the season.

Middlesex – Last 6 Matches

• 22/06/2025: Middlesex vs Northamptonshire – Northants won by 4 wickets
• 23/05/2025: Glamorgan vs Middlesex – Glamorgan won by 10 wickets
• 16/05/2025: Middlesex vs Leicestershire – Result pending
• 02/05/2025: Kent vs Middlesex – Middlesex won by 2 wickets
• 25/04/2025: Derbyshire vs Middlesex – Result pending
• 18/04/2025: Glamorgan vs Middlesex – Middlesex won by 9 wickets

Middlesex have been in better form, with three wins from their last six matches, suggesting they are in a better place mentally and technically.

Key Players to Watch

Leicestershire

• Rishi Patel – The all-rounder is a crucial player for the Foxes with his ability to score runs and take wickets.
• Harry Dearden – A reliable middle-order batsman who has shown composure in recent matches.
• Niall O’Brien – Provides stability with the bat and is a key spinner.

Middlesex

• Mark Stoneman – The experienced opener has been in good form and is likely to anchor the innings.
• Max Holden – A rising star with both bat and ball, Holden has been instrumental in recent victories.
• Toby Roland-Jones – The pacer is a key asset on seaming tracks and will look to exploit the conditions at Grace Road.

Pitch and Conditions

Grace Road is known for its seam-friendly surface, which suits the pace bowlers. The pitch offers early movement and a bit of assistance for the fast men, especially during the first two days. With the weather forecast suggesting clear skies and mild temperatures, both teams will look to capitalize on the conditions.

Prediction

The match is expected to be competitive, but Middlesex are the stronger side at the moment with a more balanced squad and better form. Their seamers, led by Toby Roland-Jones and Ethan Bamber, will enjoy the conditions at Grace Road. While Leicestershire have the home advantage, their inconsistent form and lack of wins in 2024 could be a hindrance.

Predicted Result: Middlesex to win
Predicted Score: Middlesex 466 vs Leicestershire 483

Conclusion

This four-day encounter is a must-watch for county cricket fans, with both teams having something to prove. Leicestershire will look to build on their recent win against Lancashire, but Middlesex, with their stronger squad and better form, are the favorites to come out on top.

Stay tuned for live updates, scorecard, and match highlights.