Hampshire vs Surrey – County Championship Match Preview (24 September 2025, 10:30 GMT)

As the 2025 County Championship season enters its critical phase, Hampshire and Surrey are set to clash in what promises to be an intriguing encounter. With both teams vying for a strong position in the Division One table, this match will be a true test of skill, strategy, and character.

Match Details

• Teams: Hampshire vs Surrey
• Format: County Championship (First Class)
• Venue: The Rose Bowl, Southampton
• Date & Time: 24 September 2025, 10:30 GMT
• Umpires: TBC
• Match Referee: TBC

Team Form & Recent Performance

Hampshire:
Hampshire have shown a strong batting line-up in the 2025 season, particularly on the slow, turning tracks that favor a patient approach. Their recent performance against Warwickshire saw them post a mammoth total of 550 in the first innings, with openers George Scrimshaw and Liam Dawson playing pivotal roles. The home side has been consistent at The Rose Bowl, and with the pitch expected to offer some assistance to spinners in the later stages, Hampshire will be optimistic about their chances.

Surrey:
Surrey, on the other hand, have been more inconsistent this season. While they have the ability to chase down large totals, their bowling attack has struggled against strong batting sides. The recent match against Middlesex saw them reduced to 80 for 3 in the second innings, but they managed to recover with a resilient lower-order effort. Surrey’s strength lies in their aggressive batting and their ability to adapt to different conditions. However, they will need to be more disciplined with the ball if they are to overcome a strong home side.

Key Players to Watch

Hampshire:

• Liam Dawson: The all-rounder has been in excellent form, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His ability to control the middle overs and anchor the innings makes him a key player for Hampshire.
• George Scrimshaw: The opener has been in scintillating form this season, offering stability and setting the foundation for the innings. His technique against spin will be crucial in the later stages of the match.

Surrey:

• Ollie Pope: The wicketkeeper-batsman has been a rock for Surrey in the middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate the scoring rate could be vital in any chase.
• Sean Abbott: The Australian pacer has been a revelation for Surrey this season. His ability to swing the ball and generate pace could trouble the Hampshire batters, especially if the pitch offers some assistance.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The pitch at The Rose Bowl is expected to be a low, slow surface, which will favor spinners as the match progresses. Early on, the bowlers might find some movement off the surface, but as the game unfolds, the spinners are likely to take control. Weather conditions are forecasted to be mostly clear, with a high chance of a full four-day game.

Head-to-Head

In their recent encounters, Hampshire have held a slight advantage, particularly when playing at home. However, Surrey have shown the ability to compete on such surfaces, and a result is always in the balance.

Prediction

This match is expected to be a tight contest. Hampshire’s home advantage and strong batting line-up give them a slight edge, especially if the spinners come into their own. However, Surrey’s aggressive batting and potential to chase down big totals should not be underestimated.

Prediction: Hampshire by 6 wickets in a tense four-day match.

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