Worcestershire Rapids vs Somerset will contest in the Metro Bank One Day Cup Men at Visit Worcestershire New Road, Worcester on 31 August, with the action starting at 15:30 IST (11:00 UK time). Both counties have their eyes on knockout qualification, making this clash a crucial fixture in the group stage of the tournament.
Form Guide
Worcestershire Rapids
The Rapids have been competitive throughout the campaign, combining a solid batting order with a disciplined bowling unit. Their top order has delivered runs consistently, while their seam attack has been effective in exploiting English conditions. Playing at New Road, they will look to leverage home advantage to stay ahead in the table.
- Batting led by aggressive openers who provide strong starts.
- Seamers have shown good control with the new ball and at the death.
- Middle-order contributions have strengthened their chases in pressure situations.
Somerset
Somerset enter this match with confidence, boasting a balanced team across departments. Their batting line-up has been in good form, with reliable anchors and explosive finishers. Their bowling attack, featuring both seam and spin, has shown the ability to adapt to conditions and maintain pressure throughout the innings.
- Top order dependable, with consistent scoring in recent matches.
- Bowling attack includes effective spinners who thrive in the middle overs.
- Allround contributions provide balance and flexibility in team strategy.
Key Players
Worcestershire Rapids
- Ed Pollock – Aggressive opener capable of giving Rapids flying starts.
- Kashif Ali – Middle-order batter who anchors innings and accelerates when needed.
- Joe Leach – Experienced allrounder, valuable with both bat and ball in key phases.
Somerset
- James Rew – Young wicketkeeper-batter in fine form, scoring heavily at the top of the order.
- Lewis Gregory – Captain and allrounder, steady with the bat and effective with the ball.
- Josh Davey – Reliable seamer who delivers control and breakthroughs at crucial stages.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The New Road pitch typically offers a good balance between bat and ball. Seam bowlers can exploit early movement, while batters who get set can capitalise with big scores. Spinners often come into play later in the day. The weather forecast for Worcester is favourable, with dry and mild conditions expected, ensuring a full day’s play.
Worcestershire Rapids vs Somerset – Prediction
The Rapids will depend on Ed Pollock for a strong start and Joe Leach for allround contributions. Somerset, however, bring greater depth, with James Rew in prolific form and Lewis Gregory leading effectively. Prediction: Somerset to edge past Worcestershire in a close contest at New Road.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Captain: James Rew – consistent run-scorer, ideal for fantasy captaincy.
- Vice-captain: Joe Leach – offers allround value in both departments.
- Value pick: Josh Davey – reliable wicket-taker in English conditions.
