- June 5, 2025
The Vitality Blast 2025 this week is getting to a key stage, and Middlesex has an important South Group clash with Kent at Lord’s. In their preceding game, Middlesex’s batting fell short of its potential; they lost by 5 runs to Glamorgan, after they finished at 124 runs in response to Glamorgan’s total, despite a valiant effort from the bowling unit. Therefore, this game is an opportunity to respond positively and gain vital points to stay in the mix for the playoffs. Middlesex will need to select their best XI, which will be a balance of experience and form to face the strong Kent side.
Openers
Middlesex will look to captain Stephen Eskinazi and Kane Williamson as they start their innings. Eskinazi only scored 14 from 23 balls last time, but can be a steady influence at the top of the order. He can be very patient and build his innings, which is important at a ground like Lord’s, where it’s possible to get movement early on the pitch.
Kane Williamson had a brief cameo of 25 from 22 balls before a timely run-out- it was evident to all watching – he has class. He also gives Eskinazi a terrific opening partner with his technique and adaptability. He can slowly build the innings or accelerate it, and provide Middlesex a strong base.
Middle Order
For us in the middle order, Leus du Plooy and Ryan Higgins are the batsmen we would depend on to carry the innings through a “middle phase” through to a late-order acceleration. In the last game, Du Plooy made 18 runs off 16 balls, but showed the capacity to rotate strike under pressure, and expressed composure against pace and spin both, so we see Du Plooy as a nice option in the middle overs.
Higgins made 21 runs off just 12 balls, and while not huge runs scored, his knock was pivotal in providing the impetus required at the backend of the innings. With his assertive strokeplay, it meant Higgins should clear the boundary regularly, and be really pivotal and impactful towards giving Middlesex the total score, and when chasing down a target.
All-Rounders
Luke Hollman is shaping up to be a valuable all-round asset for Middlesex. He scored 14 runs from 10 balls and bowled 4 overs for 44 runs; while not cheap, he adds to the team in more than one way, being a serviceable bowler and batsman further down the order. His ability to contribute with ball and bat gives Middlesex options in both innings and especially during the middle overs when controlling the match is paramount.
Zafar Gohar is also an all-rounder who contributes spin and batting depth. In his last match, Gohar’s bowling figures of 4 overs, 23 runs, and 1 wicket reflect his ability to keep runs down, as well as get valuable wickets. While his batting has been limited recently, he can get runs down the order, especially when the pressure is high.
Bowlers
Mason Crane is the bowling spearhead for Middlesex. He had a great match against Glamorgan, taking 4 wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs. His leg-spin continually troubled the batsmen and was instrumental in breaking key partnerships. This will be an important component of the game against Kent’s top order. With his variations, control, and consistent talent, he provides a constant threat.
Tom Helm complements Crane perfectly. He had 3 wickets for 29 runs in 3.3 overs and has a knack for taking wickets quickly and making the ball bounce and generate pace. In those pressure-packed phases, his wickets don’t just fall—they hit like a tactical knockout.
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