The spotlight shifts to Merseyside as Lancashire face Durham at the picturesque Aigburth Ground, Liverpool on Thursday 21 August 2025. Play begins at 11:00 AM BST (3:30 PM IST). Aigburth is known for its scenic setting and supportive crowds, and both sides will be eager to make a statement in this northern clash.
Form Guide
Lancashire
Lancashire have combined explosive batting with a settled bowling core. Their home form has been strong, but they will look to maintain consistency in their middle-order contributions.
- Top order has delivered brisk starts in successive matches.
- Seam attack finding swing and early breakthroughs.
- Middle-order contributions improving, reducing pressure on the openers.
Durham
Durham have shown resilience this season, bouncing back from tough losses with bold performances. Their bowling has been a highlight, with disciplined seamers leading the way.
- Bowling attack consistently taking wickets in the powerplay.
- Batting has relied heavily on their top three to build momentum.
- Lower order yet to fire, leading to collapses in close contests.
Key Players
Lancashire
- Jos Buttler – The England star is a game-changer, capable of brutal innings at the top of the order.
- Liam Livingstone – Power-hitter with the ability to clear boundaries with ease and bowl handy overs of spin.
- Tom Hartley – Tall spinner who extracts bounce and provides crucial middle-overs control.
Durham
- Alex Lees – Skipper and reliable top-order presence, often anchoring Durham’s innings.
- Graham Clark – Aggressive opener who can change the tempo quickly in the powerplay.
- Matthew Potts – Lead seamer who delivers breakthroughs and bowls tough overs at the death.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Aigburth usually offers a balanced surface, with early assistance for seamers before flattening into a good batting track. Spinners can come into play later, particularly if the surface wears. With its short square boundaries, expect high scoring if the sun shines. The weather forecast for Thursday is bright and sunny, making conditions perfect for cricket with little risk of rain interruptions.
Lancashire vs Durham – Prediction
Lancashire look strong at home, with Jos Buttler and Liam Livingstone capable of match-winning contributions. Durham will lean on Alex Lees and Matthew Potts to set the tone. While Durham’s bowling attack is impressive, Lancashire’s batting depth and familiarity with conditions should see them start as favourites.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Jos Buttler (LAN) – Explosive opener, fantasy captaincy candidate.
- Matthew Potts (DUR) – Strike bowler who can deliver crucial wickets.
- Liam Livingstone (LAN) – All-rounder offering points with both bat and ball.
