Durham vs Warwickshire – Vitality T20 Blast Match Preview (2025)

Date: Sunday, July 06, 2025
Time: 14:30 GMT (07:00 PM IST)
Venue: Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street
Format: T20
Series: Vitality T20 Blast 2025 – North Division
Live Streaming: Star Sports Network, SonyLiv, Fancode, and county YouTube channels

Team Form and Head-to-Head

Durham have had a strong start to the 2025 Vitality T20 Blast campaign, securing 5 wins from their first 8 matches. Sitting in third place in the North Division with 20 points and a positive net run rate, they are in a commanding position and looking to maintain their upward trajectory. Their balanced squad, led by Graham Clarke, and bolstered by all-rounders like James Neesham and Callum Parkinson, gives them a solid foundation for a T20 contest.

Warwickshire, on the other hand, find themselves in fifth place in the North Division with 4 wins from 8 games and 16 points. While they have shown glimpses of good form, consistency has been an issue this season. Their experienced lineup, including the likes of Sam Hain and Moeen Ali, will be eager to bounce back after a few inconsistent performances.

Head-to-Head History:
In 19 previous T20 matches, Warwickshire have the edge, having won 13 compared to Durham’s 6. However, with a strong home advantage on offer at Riverside, Durham will be confident of reversing the trend.

Ground Conditions and Weather

The Riverside Ground is known to offer a balanced surface for T20 cricket, with a slight advantage for teams chasing. The pitch currently has some grass, which could aid the spinners later in the match. With short square boundaries (61m) and moderately short straight boundaries (65m), explosive batting could be on the cards.

Weather Forecast:
The match is likely to take place under overcast skies, with a high chance of rain and strong winds. The temperature is expected to hover in the high teens, adding another layer of challenge for both teams. Rain could potentially impact the match, so teams will need to be ready for any eventuality.

Key Players to Watch

• Graham Clarke (Durham): A dynamic opener, Clarke is one of the standout performers in the North Division and will be crucial in setting the tone for Durham.
• Sam Hain (Warwickshire): A consistent run-scorer, Hain has the ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required.
• James Neesham (Durham): A world-class all-rounder, Neesham can change the course of the game with his explosive batting and sharp medium-pace.
• Moeen Ali (Warwickshire): A seasoned campaigner, Moeen brings experience and variety with both bat and ball.

Match Prediction

This is set to be an exciting contest between two well-balanced teams, with the home conditions favoring Durham. Their strong form and the advantage of playing at a pitch that suits their aggressive brand of cricket could be the difference. Warwickshire will look to exploit the weather conditions with their spin and pace attack, but Durham's depth and experience may give them the edge.

Prediction: Durham to win by 5-6 runs.

Fantasy Tips (Dream11)

• Captain (C): Graham Clarke – High impact opener
• Vice-Captain (VC): Sam Hain – Reliable middle-order run-scorer
• Wicketkeeper: Ollie Robinson – Solid behind the stumps
• All-Rounder: James Neesham – Big-hitter and impactful bowler
• Bowler: Nathan Sowter – Useful left-arm seamer with reverse swing

Final Thoughts

With both teams eager to climb up the North Division table, this match promises high intensity and entertainment. The weather and pitch conditions will play a key role, and the team that adapts better to the elements is likely to emerge victorious. Don't miss what could be a thrilling encounter at the Riverside Ground.