Worcestershire vs Surrey – Match Preview – Metro Bank One Day Cup 2025

Date: August 26, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM GMT / 03:30 PM Local Time
Venue: County Ground, New Road, Worcester
Tournament: Metro Bank One Day Cup 2025
Series Format: One Day Cup – Group A
Teams: Worcestershire (WOR) vs Surrey (SUR)

Match Overview

Worcestershire and Surrey are set to clash in what promises to be an intriguing One Day Cup encounter at New Road in Worcester. This match will be the latest chapter in a long-standing rivalry between the two counties, with both sides looking to secure a crucial win to strengthen their position in Group A.

With the pitch at New Road historically favoring the attacking side, both teams will need to strike the right balance between batting aggression and disciplined bowling. The weather forecast is expected to remain cool, at a chilly 0°C, potentially impacting the early stages of the match.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Worcestershire

Worcestershire have shown impressive form in their recent matches, winning three of their last five games. Their most recent victory came against Leicestershire, where they chased down a target with just 10 balls to spare. However, their home record in the last six matches has been a bit mixed, with one win and one loss in their last two home games.

Key performers for Worcestershire include their top-order batsmen, who have consistently scored crucial runs, and their spinners, who have been effective on the slow home track.

Surrey

Surrey, on the other hand, have had a less consistent run in recent matches. They have lost two of their last three games, including a narrow defeat to Hampshire in a match that was decided under the D/L method. However, they did manage a tight win against Glamorgan in their penultimate match, which was a positive sign.

Surrey will be relying heavily on their explosive middle-order and their ability to chase down tight totals. Their bowlers, particularly the pacemen, have struggled in recent games, which could be a concern against a home team that is often strong in batting.

Head-to-Head Record

The two teams have a relatively even head-to-head record in recent encounters. The last ODI between them on June 22, 2025, ended in a draw, while the match in June 2024 saw Surrey win by an innings and 5 runs. This suggests that while Surrey have had the upper hand in recent history, Worcestershire will be eager to avenge that result and take control on home soil.

Key Players to Watch

• Worcestershire:

  • Batsmen: Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Joe Clarke – both have been in good form with the bat and are expected to anchor the innings.
  • Bowlers: Joe Leach, Moeen Ali – the experienced duo has been vital in both tight spells and match-winning spells at home.

• Surrey:

  • Batsmen: Laurie Evans, Ben Foakes – both have been the backbone of Surrey's middle order in recent matches.
  • Bowlers: Chris Woakes, Tom Curran – the paceman duo will be crucial for Surrey to contain Worcestershire’s aggressive batting.

Match Prediction and Fantasy Tips

Prediction Runs: 42058
Average Runs: 243
Projected Score: 246

Given the home advantage and the recent form of Worcestershire’s batting unit, they are slight favorites to win this encounter. However, Surrey's ability to chase tight targets and the unpredictable nature of One Day Cup matches could make it a close contest.

Fantasy XI (Dream 11) Suggestion:

• Worcestershire:

  • Tom Kohler-Cadmore (C)
  • Joe Clarke
  • Moeen Ali (VC)
  • Joe Leach
  • Matthew Parkinson (Bowler)

• Surrey:

  • Laurie Evans
  • Ben Foakes
  • Chris Woakes
  • Tom Curran
  • Owen Finch (All-rounder)

Final Thoughts

This match is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams having the firepower to win. The toss will be crucial, as the decision to bat or chase first could swing the match in either direction. With the cool weather and a home advantage, Worcestershire may have the slight edge, but don't rule out a strong performance from a resurgent Surrey.

Cricket fans can look forward to a high-scoring, action-packed match at one of the most historic venues in English county cricket.
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