Sussex vs Warwickshire – County Championship Division One Match Preview (29 June 2025)

Date: 29 June 2025
Time: 11:00 AM GMT
Venue: County Ground, Hove
Format: County Championship Division One
Toss: TBC
Pitch Condition: Moderately helpful to seam and spin early in the match

Match Overview

The 2025 County Championship season reaches an intriguing stage as Sussex host Warwickshire at the County Ground, Hove on 29 June 2025. With both teams vying for crucial points in the standings, this encounter promises to be a tactical and physical test in the four-day format.

Sussex, currently third in the Division One table with 109 points, will be eager to capitalize on their strong home record. Warwickshire, fifth in the table with 104 points, are on the road and will need to perform well to keep their title aspirations alive.

Team Analysis

Sussex – Home Advantage and a Balanced Lineup

Sussex have been one of the consistent performers in the 2025 season, with a balanced side capable of both batting and bowling prowess. The home advantage at Hove, which traditionally favors seam movement early in the game, will be a key factor in their favor.

• Batsmen to watch: Cheteshwar Pujara has been in sublime form, anchoring the innings with his classical technique. George Garton and Will Smith also offer stability in the middle order.
• Bowling attack: Ollie Robinson remains a dominant force with his pace and accuracy. The spin duo of Jamie Overton and Matthew Fisher provides variety and threat on a pitch that could assist turn later in the match.
• Form: Sussex have won three of their last four games at home and will be looking to make it four in a row.

Warwickshire – Away Challenge and a Resilient Side

Warwickshire have been a resilient unit in the 2025 season, with a strong batting line-up and a bowling attack that can trouble even the best of sides. However, their away record has been mixed, with just one win from their last four games on the road.

• Batsmen to watch: Aiden Markram continues to be the cornerstone of their batting, supported by the aggressive stroke play of Tom Lammonby and the experience of Laurie Evans.
• Bowling attack: Alex Davies is a world-class all-rounder, and his left-arm spin could pose a significant threat if the pitch offers assistance. Jack Shantry and Josh Poysden have also been consistent with the ball.
• Form: Warwickshire have lost their last two away games, including a tight 1-wicket defeat against Somerset, and will need to find consistency in the field and with the bat.

Head-to-Head Record

The recent history between Sussex and Warwickshire has been closely contested, particularly in the last two meetings:

• 28 July 2024: Warwickshire won by 1 wicket (35 balls remaining)
• 22 August 2023: Warwickshire won by 1 wicket (6 balls remaining)

These results suggest that Warwickshire have had the edge in tight contests, but Sussex are determined to reverse the trend at home.

Weather Forecast

The weather at Hove on 29 June 2025 is expected to be fine and dry, with temperatures in the mid-20s. No rain is forecasted, which bodes well for a full contest. However, a few clouds may provide some early assistance to seam bowlers.

Pitch and Ground Conditions

The County Ground pitch at Hove is known for its early seam and swing, which favors fast bowlers. However, the surface tends to flatten out as the game progresses, making it a fair contest for batters later in the match.

Sussex will be confident in their ability to exploit the early conditions, especially with Ollie Robinson in their ranks. Warwickshire will look to adjust quickly and counter with their spin options.

Match Prediction

Sussex to lead the match
The home advantage, combined with their strong batting depth and a bowling attack that thrives on the Hove pitch, gives Sussex the edge in this four-day contest. Warwickshire have the tools to compete, but their recent struggles on the road may hinder their chances.

Key Factors:

• Sussex's home advantage and seam-friendly pitch
• Pujara and Garton's ability to anchor the innings
• Ollie Robinson and Jamie Overton's bowling threat
• Warwickshire's reliance on consistent batting and spin support

Conclusion

The Sussex vs Warwickshire clash at Hove on 29 June 2025 is a pivotal match in the race for the County Championship title. With both teams in good form but with Sussex enjoying the advantage of home conditions, the match is likely to be a tight affair. However, the home side's experience and balanced squad make them the slight favorites to take control.

Prediction: Sussex to lead the match.
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