The Metro Bank One Day Cup continues with an intriguing Group B clash in Chester‑le‑Street as Durham welcome Middlesex to the Banks Homes Riverside ground. This 50‑over match is scheduled to begin at 11:00 BST on 13 August 2025, which corresponds to 15:30 IST. The Riverside has been a happy hunting ground for the home side, but Middlesex arrive buoyed by a morale‑boosting win and will be keen to upset the high‑flying hosts in front of a lively north‑east crowd.
Durham
Durham have looked one of the stronger sides in Group B and currently sit near the top of the table. They returned to winning ways by beating Kent convincingly in their last outing: their bowlers restricted Kent to 238 before opener Emilio Gay compiled a brilliant unbeaten 119 to chase the target with ease. Captain‑keeper Ollie Robinson and all‑rounder Will Rhodes also chipped in with useful runs, underlining the strength of their top and middle order. Prior to that, Durham had split their first two games and now have two wins from three matches, sitting second in the group with a healthy net run rate.
- Strong top order featuring Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson and Will Rhodes.
- Bowling attack restricted Kent to 238 in the last match, showcasing control and wickets at regular intervals.
- Stand second in Group B with two wins in three matches and a net run rate of 0.611.
Middlesex
Middlesex’s campaign has been more erratic. They were outplayed by Somerset in their opener but bounced back against Sussex, chasing 256 wit wickets in hand thanks largely to their openers. Veteran opener Sam Robson struck an imperious 89 while Joe Cracknell supported him with 78; their efforts ensured the chase never wavered. However, their bowling unit has been expensive, conceding heavy totals in both matches. Middlesex sit fifth with a 1‑1 record and will need a more disciplined bowling display to trouble Durham.
- Openers Sam Robson and Joe Cracknell compiled 89 and 78 respectively in the win over Sussex.
- Bowling unit has leaked runs and needs improvement.
- Record stands at one win and one loss; fifth in the group and chasing consistency.
Key Players
Durham
- Will Rhodes: The all‑rounder has been Durham’s standout performer, topping both the run‑scoring and wicket charts with 228 runs and 10 wickets in three games. He scored 32 and took two wickets against Kent, proving invaluable with bat and ball.
- Emilio Gay: The left‑hander played a match‑winning unbeaten 119 against Kent, anchoring Durham’s chase. His form at the top of the order sets the platform for big totals.
- Ollie Robinson: The wicket‑keeper captain provides stability and flair in the middle order and is sharp behind the stumps. His experience and leadership will be vital against a Middlesex attack searching for confidence.
Middlesex
- Sam Robson: The opener has amassed 107 runs in two innings and looked in sublime touch against Sussex. His average of 53.50 is the best for Middlesex so far and he will again be key at the top.e
- Joe Cracknell: The wicket‑keeper batter complements Robson perfectly, striking 78 against Sussex and forming a 150‑plus opening stand. Another strong start will ease the pressure on the middle order.
- Toby Roland‑Jones: The experienced seamer claimed two wickets with a miserly economy of 4.37 in the win over Sussex. His ability to extract bounce and movement could trouble Durham’s in‑form top order.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Banks Homes Riverside ground is known for its balanced pitches. According to ground reports, surfaces here offer good bounce and carry when dry, giving both batters and bowlers an equal opportunity to dominate. On bright sunny days the pitch hardens, making run‑scoring challenging early on but easing as the ball comes onto the bat nicely later in the innings. Teams batting first and second have enjoyed almost equal success in T20s, with the average first‑innings score around 160; in 50‑over cricket totals around 280 are often competitive.
August weather in Chester‑le‑Street is typically mild and pleasant. The daily high temperatures around mid‑month hover near 19 °C, with overnight lows near 11 °C. Rainfall is sporadic and conditions are often overcast or partly cloudy, so interruptions are unlikely. Expect a cool breeze off the River Wear and good conditions for a full match.
Durham vs Middlesex Prediction
Durham hold a 2‑1 lead over Middlesex in their last five meetings and come into this game with momentum after a comprehensive win over Kent. Their top order is firing and Will Rhodes’ all‑round excellence gives them balance. Middlesex will rely heavily on Sam Robson and Joe Cracknell to post or chase a competitive total, but their bowling lacks penetration and discipline. Given Durham’s stronger batting, superior bowling depth and home advantage, the hosts are favourites to extend their advantage.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Will Rhodes (DUR): In form with both bat and ball; leads his side’s run and wicket charts and offers plenty of fantasy points through all‑round contributions.
- Emilio Gay (DUR): Match‑winning century in the last game makes him a must‑pick top‑order batter.
- Sam Robson (MID): Middlesex’s most consistent batter with 107 runs in two games; likely to anchor their innings again.
Fans at Chester‑le‑Street can look forward to a competitive 50‑over contest. Durham will aim to cement their place near the top of Group B, while Middlesex seek consistency and a statement win on the road. With mild weather forecast and a lively pitch, the stage is set for an entertaining match on 13 August.
