Worcestershire vs Somerset – One Day Cup Semi-Final Preview (2025)

Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM GMT
Venue: County Ground, New Road, Worcester
Format: 49 Overs (One Day Cup)
Stage: Semi-Final

Match Preview

The 2025 Metro Bank One Day Cup is set to reach a thrilling climax as Worcestershire take on Somerset in a high-stakes semi-final clash at the County Ground, New Road, Worcester. The match is a pivotal encounter that could shape the tournament's narrative, with both teams having showcased their prowess in the group stages.

Worcestershire, the top seeds from Group A, have been in red-hot form, securing six wins from eight matches. Their powerful batting lineup, spearheaded by skipper Jake Libby (425 runs in eight innings), has been a key factor in their success. Their last match saw them post a 266-run total and chase down the target with ease, thanks to a solid opening partnership and a late flourish from Kashif Ali and Libby.

On the other hand, Somerset, the Group B qualifiers, have made a strong case for their place in the semi-finals. Under the leadership of James Rew, who has been their top scorer with 391 runs in nine innings, Somerset showcased their resilience in the quarterfinal against Gloucestershire. A disciplined bowling performance and a composed batting display from the Rews (James and Thomas) saw them restrict Gloucestershire to a mere 155 and secure a six-wicket victory.

The historical head-to-head record favors Somerset, who have a 9-1 record over Worcestershire in the tournament. This psychological edge, combined with the bookmakers’ odds (Somerset at 1.59 vs. Worcestershire at 2.11), suggests that Somerset may be the more fancied side heading into the match.

Key Players to Watch

Worcestershire

• Jake Libby (Captain, Batter): The heart of the team, Libby has been the most consistent run-scorer and will be vital in setting up the innings or steering the chase.
• Kashif Ali (Batter): A versatile middle-order player who has shown the ability to accelerate when needed.
• Ben Allison (Bowler): A key wicket-taker for Worcestershire, Allison is expected to play a crucial role in breaking partnerships.

Somerset

• James Rew (Captain, Wicketkeeper-Batter): The cornerstone of the batting order, Rew's experience and composure will be instrumental in steering Somerset to victory.
• Thomas Rew (Batter): A reliable partner for James, Thomas has been a steadying presence at the top.
• Jake Ball (Bowler): A left-arm orthodox spinner, Ball brings variety and has the ability to turn the game with crucial wickets.

Venue Insights

The County Ground, New Road in Worcester typically offers a batting-friendly surface, with the pitch providing a bit of assistance to fast bowlers early on but generally favoring aggressive batting. The overcast conditions often help spinners, but with the semi-final match likely to be played under lights, the dew factor could play a role in the toss decision.

Tactical Outlook

Worcestershire will look to capitalize on their home advantage and strong batting line-up. If they win the toss, batting first might allow their batters to post a daunting total, leveraging the green top. Somerset, however, are likely to target early wickets and rely on their experienced middle-order to chase down any total.

Somerset’s bowling attack, led by Jake Ball and supported by their fast bowlers, will aim to break partnerships early. The key for Worcestershire will be to stay composed under pressure and avoid the early wickets that have cost them in previous matches.

Match Prediction

With Somerset holding the psychological edge and the bookmakers tipping them as the favorites, the semi-final is expected to be a closely fought contest. However, the form, experience, and superior head-to-head record give Somerset a slight edge in this encounter.

Prediction: Somerset to win by 10-15 runs

Betting Tips

• Best Batter:

  • Worcestershire: Jake Libby
  • Somerset: James Rew

• Best Bowler:

  • Worcestershire: Ben Allison
  • Somerset: Jake Ball

• Recommended Bookmaker:

  • Stake.com (Welcome bonus: INR 100,000) – Download App

Final Thoughts

This semi-final promises to be a thrilling encounter with both teams in strong form. While Worcestershire have the advantage of home conditions and a potent batting lineup, Somerset's superior head-to-head record and current form give them the edge. It will be a battle of skill, strategy, and nerves, with the winner earning a well-deserved place in the One Day Cup final.

Kickoff: 11:00 AM GMT
Venue: County Ground, New Road, Worcester
Don’t miss it!