Middlesex vs Gloucestershire Match Preview – County Championship Division Two, 2025
Date: September 24, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM GMT / 3:30 PM IST
Venue: Lord's, London
Format: First Class
Competition: County Championship Division Two 2025
Match Overview
The County Championship Division Two season approaches its climax, and one of the key encounters is set to take place at the hallowed grounds of Lord's, where Middlesex will host Gloucestershire on September 24, 2025. With both teams having had strong runs in the tournament, this match promises to be a thrilling contest between two well-balanced sides.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Middlesex have been in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, and their home record at Lord's adds another layer of advantage. With a blend of experienced batting and a potent bowling attack, the Middlesex side is looking to secure a crucial win in the race for promotion.
Gloucestershire, on the other hand, have been equally consistent, going unbeaten in their last three matches. Their recent signing, Will Williams, is expected to bolster their bowling attack and provide them with a formidable edge, especially on a pitch that may offer some assistance to seamers.
Head-to-Head Record
Middlesex and Gloucestershire have met 140 times in first-class cricket, with Middlesex holding a commanding 89-51 advantage. This historical edge, combined with their recent form and home advantage, makes them the favorites to come out on top in this encounter.
Key Players to Watch
Middlesex:
- Max Holden – The star batsman of the side, Holden has scored 898 runs this season and is a key figure in the top order.
- Leus du Plooy – The South African all-rounder is expected to play a pivotal role with both bat and ball.
- Ryan Higgins – The experienced seamer is the leader of the bowling attack and has been instrumental in Middlesex's recent successes.
Gloucestershire:
- James Bracey – The prolific run-scorer of the tournament, Bracey has accumulated 950 runs and will be a crucial asset.
- Ajeet Dale – The paceman has been in fine form and is expected to be the spearhead of the Gloucestershire attack.
- Will Williams – The new signing is a key addition and could provide a much-needed spark on a seamer-friendly pitch.
Weather Forecast and Toss Prediction
The weather at Lord's is expected to be clear and dry, with no disruptions anticipated. Historically, teams bowling first have had the upper hand in this fixture, which could influence the toss decision. It will be interesting to see if the captain opts to bat or bowl first based on the pitch conditions.
Betting Odds and Predictions
- Middlesex to Win: 1.67
- Gloucestershire to Win: 2.08
Based on the strong head-to-head record, recent form, and the home advantage, Middlesex are the clear favorites to win this match. Their experienced batting lineup and potent bowling unit give them the edge, especially at Lord's.
Predicted XIs
Middlesex (11):
- Sam Robson
- Max Holden
- Kane Williamson
- Leus du Plooy
- Ryan Higgins
- Ben Geddes
- Joe Cracknell
- Joshua De Caires
- Luke Hollman
- Tom Helm
- Noah Cornwell
Gloucestershire (11):
- Cameron Bancroft
- Ben Charlesworth
- Joe Phillips
- Oliver Price
- Miles Hammond
- James Bracey
- Graeme van Buuren
- Zaman Akhter
- Todd Murphy
- Matt Taylor
- Ajeet Dale (c)
Final Prediction
With Middlesex's strong home record, impressive form, and historical dominance, they are the strong favorites to win this match. Gloucestershire, although in good form, may struggle to break through Middlesex's solid defense and aggressive batting.
Our Prediction:
Middlesex win by 100+ runs
For the latest updates, scores, and in-depth analysis of the 2025 County Championship, keep visiting CricketWorld's County Championship page.
For more on Middlesex's journey in the tournament, visit the Middlesex cricket page.
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