- June 17, 2025
Confidence is high, the nets are crackling, and Worcestershire look ready to turn this North Group clash into a statement piece. Following last night’s 25-run win at Nottinghamshire with a thrilling performance with the bat, ball, and in the field, the Rapids are emerging to be one of the most dangerous teams in the North Group. With an eye on the fixture against historic rivals Lancashire, Worcestershire will be hoping to continue their good form and show themselves as real title contenders. Therefore, let’s explore who could be fully fit for the XI and the reasoning behind it!
Openers
Even though Ed Pollock only saw brief action in the last match, he remains in the expected opening spot. Pollock is known for his aggressive intent and game-changing power-hitting, while just managing 1 run from 3 balls against Notts, his natural game means he becomes dangerous if he gets going. He has a strike rate of about 140 in T20s, so after a few overs, he only needs to take the game away.
He will most likely be partnered with Kashif Ali – he made a name for himself in the last game with a composed yet commanding 51 runs (35 balls). Kashif times the ball with ease, along with strength and power. If he can consolidate after a few wickets and then hit the ninth gear, he could also be ideal to open with for this game.
Middle Order
Adam Hose was the star of the last game, and his 95 off 51 balls was a remarkable example of managing pressure and hitting for power. With seven fours and six sixes, Hose dominated bowlers of all lengths and paces. The 3 or 4 spot in a top order adds depth, consistency, and explosive nature to a middle order needing just that.
Ethan Brookes played a supporting role with his blistering 32 off just 19 balls. His quickfire innings helped the Rebels regroup after the dismissal of Kashif. Brookes was able to hit fours against spinners or seamers, meaning he has the versatility. When the game dictates, Brookes can play as an aggressor or anchor, and that is gold in the middle overs.
All-Rounders
Ben Dwarshuis is continuing to show why he is one of the best T20 assets in the World. He not only ended with figures of 1/23 from his four overs at an economy of 5.75 – staggering in the context of a 200+ game – but also chipped in with a rapid 18* off 9 balls down the order.
With two telling blows, Tom Taylor proved his bowling credentials beyond doubt. Although his batting did not come into play this time, he still has the potential to belt the ball out of the park in the last few overs. Taylor and Dwarshuis in the same team gives Worcestershire an enviable amount of depth, having them both gives you two guys that no one else has.
Bowlers
Jacob Duffy’s last game may have gone unnoticed, but he was critical. His 2/42 included the wicket of the dangerous Jack Haynes, in the middle, and while it was a little expensive, Duffy has a history of impacting the game in pivotal moments with short balls and cross-seam variations.
Age was just a number for Fateh Singh, who composed 1/38, including the crucial scalp of Moises Henriques. His partnership-breaking ability was key at restricting scoring in the middle overs, providing Brett D’Oliveira with an important mechanism of control on turning wickets (which he is expected to continue leading despite his duck).
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