Hampshire vs Essex Prediction, Stats, Players, Odds: 7/8/2025

After opening their One-Day Cup campaign with a match against Nottinghamshire in Sookholme, Essex now head south to face Hampshire Hawks at the Rose Bowl. This fixture marks Hampshire’s first home outing in this year’s competition, following an away fixture against Glamorgan in Neath earlier in the week.

Although several high-profile names are missing from both sides due to commitments in The Hundred, the squads remain competitive, showcasing a blend of established players and emerging talent. The match also provides an opportunity for young prospects and national counties players to impress and potentially secure long-term contracts.

Hampshire: Balancing Youth and Experience

Despite being without two of their premier white-ball stars—James Vince and Liam Dawson—Hampshire Hawks are expected to field a strong lineup for their first home game of the tournament. The side features a well-balanced combination of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers.

Opening the innings will be the dependable Nick Gubbins alongside Scotland international Brandon McMullen. In the middle order, Indian star Tilak Varma brings flair and explosive potential, and he is tipped to be among the top scorers in the competition.

Hampshire’s bowling attack will be spearheaded by young pace duo Dominic Kelly and Andrew Neal, who are set to take on the new ball responsibilities. With strong crowd support expected at the Rose Bowl, the Hawks will be eager to deliver a winning performance on home turf.

Predicted XI – Hampshire Hawks: Brandon McMullen, Nick Gubbins (c), Tilak Varma, Alex Eckland, Tom Prest, Joe Weatherly, Felix Organ, Ali Orr, Ben Mayes, Dominic Kelly, Andrew Neal

Essex: Quiet Confidence Heading South

After starting their campaign in Mansfield, Essex return to familiar territory in the south, aiming to build momentum against Hampshire. Unlike several other teams in the tournament, Essex retain many of their key players, giving them a solid foundation to build from.

Captain Tom Westley provides experience and stability at the top, supported by seasoned performers like Matt Critchley, Robin Das, and seamer Jamie Porter. Charlie Allison, already in good touch this season, adds further batting firepower.

The bowling department will be bolstered by tall fast bowler Shane Snater, who has enjoyed an impressive run in the County Championship and will look to make a similar impact in the white-ball format.

Predicted XI – Essex: Tom Westley (c), Charlie Allison, Luc Benkenstein, Charlie Bennett, Nick Browne, Matt Critchley, Robin Das, Simon Fernandes, Jamie Porter, Jamal Richards, Shane Snater

Conditions and Match Outlook

Weather Forecast: Thursday’s weather in Southampton is expected to be humid with overcast skies throughout the day, though there’s a good chance rain may hold off. The temperature should peak at around 21°C.

Pitch Report: The Rose Bowl typically offers a batting-friendly surface, and Thursday should be no different. Teams batting first will aim for a total close to 350, which is likely to be a par score given the conditions.

Toss Prediction: Given the forecast for cloud cover and potential early movement for seamers, both captains are likely to opt to bowl first if they win the toss.

Prediction: Hampshire to Edge a Competitive Clash

With both teams boasting quality lineups, this contest promises to be closely fought. However, Hampshire appear to have a slight edge in terms of squad depth, especially with a mix of international talent and home-grown youth performing well in recent formats.

Prediction: Back Hampshire Hawks to claim victory in their first home game of the tournament.