Worcestershire vs Hampshire – County Championship 2025 Match Preview (29 July 2025)

Venue: New Road, Worcester
Date & Time: 29 July 2025, 11:00 GMT
Format: County Championship (4-day match)
Competition: Rothesay County Championship 2025 – Division One

Match Preview

Worcestershire and Hampshire are set to face off in a crucial County Championship fixture at New Road, Worcester on 29 July 2025. With the 2025 season already well underway, both teams are looking to gain momentum as the latter part of the season approaches.

Worcestershire, traditionally a strong side in the County Championship, will be eager to continue their strong performance on home soil. The New Road pitch, known for offering a fair balance between bat and ball, could be a key factor in the outcome of the match. Worcestershire’s batting unit has shown consistency, and if the pitch remains good for batting, they could pose a significant challenge for Hampshire’s bowlers.

On the other hand, Hampshire will be looking to maintain their position in the Division One table. The Hampshire side has been competitive in recent fixtures, with a balanced squad that includes experienced campaigners and emerging talents. Their bowling unit, led by their spinners, could be the key to success on a pitch that may not offer too much assistance to seamers.

Key Players to Watch

• Worcestershire:

  • Joe Leach: The veteran spinner has been a mainstay for Worcestershire and will be instrumental in controlling the middle overs.
  • Ben Cox: The all-rounder has added value with both bat and ball and could be a game-changer for the hosts.

• Hampshire:

  • Ollie Eddleston: A rising star with a knack for taking crucial wickets, Eddleston could be the difference-maker for Hampshire.
  • James Vince: The experienced opener brings stability and experience to the Hampshire top order.

Weather & Pitch Conditions

The weather forecast for Worcester on 29 July 2025 suggests mostly sunny conditions, with a slight breeze, offering ideal conditions for a four-day contest. The New Road pitch is expected to be batting-friendly, with minimal assistance for seamers early on. However, as the match progresses, the pitch may flatten out, favoring the spinners.

Head-to-Head

Worcestershire and Hampshire have a competitive history in the County Championship. While both sides have had their moments, recent encounters have been closely fought, with neither side dominating the other. This match is expected to be another tight affair, with both teams having the potential to win.

Prediction

This match promises to be an exciting four-day contest between two evenly matched teams. If Worcestershire can capitalize on home advantage and maintain their form, they could edge this match. However, if Hampshire’s bowlers can exploit any early turn from the pitch and contain the hosts, they could come out on top.

Prediction: A closely fought match that could go either way, with a slight edge to Worcestershire at home.

Conclusion

The Worcestershire vs Hampshire encounter is set to be one of the highlights of the County Championship 2025. With both teams looking to strengthen their positions in the Division One table, this match promises to deliver high-quality cricket and thrilling moments for fans. Cricket enthusiasts will not want to miss this clash at New Road.

Catch the action at 11:00 GMT on 29 July 2025.
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