Nottinghamshire vs Birmingham Bears T20BLAST Preview, Prediction and odds: 30/5/2025

The 2025 T20 Blast campaign will begin for Nottinghamshire at their home ground, Trent Bridge, as they take on Birmingham Bears in what promises to be a tightly contested fixture. After a below-par 2024 season in which they managed just two wins at home and struggled to build any consistent form, Notts will be eager to start their new season on a stronger note. Meanwhile, Birmingham Bears arrive in Nottingham with momentum on their side after finishing atop the points table last year with 10 wins in 14 matches, including two against the Outlaws.

Nottinghamshire Overview

Nottinghamshire boasts a strong batting core with experienced players like Alex Hales, Ben Duckett, and Joe Clarke, all capable of changing games with individual brilliance. However, their previous encounter against Birmingham at this very venue ended poorly, with the hosts being dismissed for just 57 runs. This year, the side hopes for a better showing with additional support from all-rounders Daniel Sams and Moises Henriques, both known for their power-hitting and late-order stability.

Lower-order contributions will be critical, with Jack Haynes and Lyndon James providing depth. Sams, if included in the final XI, is expected to serve in a finishing role. In terms of bowling, the Outlaws will rely on Olly Stone and Matthew Montgomery to lead the pace attack. Sams could further strengthen this department, alongside Dilon Pennington and Liam Patterson-White, both of whom offer all-round value. Despite concerns over the bowling unit’s consistency, Stone remains a bowler capable of producing game-changing spells.

The predicted playing XI for Nottinghamshire includes: Joe Clarke (captain), Ben Duckett, Alex Hales, Tom Moores (wicketkeeper), Matthew Montgomery, Lyndon James, Ben Slater, Liam Patterson-White, Brett Hutton, Olly Stone, Daniel Sams.

Bears Overview

Birmingham Bears return to action following a dominant group-stage showing in the 2024 edition, though their campaign ended at the quarter-final stage. They enter the new season with a balanced squad that may not carry as many high-profile names but has consistently delivered as a collective unit. Moeen Ali will be central to their plans, both as a senior figure and as a match-winner with bat and ball. Alongside him, top-order batters Alex Davies and Dan Mousley have demonstrated reliability and will again be key.

The Bears’ strength lies in their adaptability. With a roster full of versatile all-rounders such as Ed Barnard and Jacob Bethell, they are well-equipped to adjust tactics mid-game. Beau Webster adds further balance to the middle order, offering stability with the bat and handy overs if required. Mousley, apart from his batting contributions, remains an important wicket-taking option in the spin department.

The bowling attack appears robust, with Chris Woakes providing experience and leadership. He is joined by George Garton and Jake Lintott, both proven performers in the T20 format. Danny Briggs remains a vital component in the spin attack, while additional seam options include Craig Miles and Richard Gleeson, giving the Bears a well-rounded lineup.

The predicted playing XI for Birmingham Bears includes: Alex Davies (captain & wicketkeeper), Moeen Ali, Dan Mousley, Ed Barnard, Jacob Bethell, Beau Webster, George Garton, Chris Woakes, Jake Lintott, Danny Briggs, Craig Miles.

Pitch Report and Weather Outlook

The match will be played at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, a venue known for its balanced conditions. Historically, it has supported fast bowlers early in the innings, especially with the new ball. The average first-innings score at this ground in recent T20 games has hovered around 133 runs, indicating that batters need to apply themselves to post a competitive total. A target above 170 could prove challenging to chase, particularly under overcast skies.

Weather forecasts for match day indicate the possibility of light rain, with temperatures reaching a high of 21°C. Rain interruptions may result in reduced overs or, in the worst-case scenario, an abandoned game. Captains may prefer bowling first to adapt better to any changes in playing conditions, particularly if the match is shortened.

Prediction

The outcome of this fixture will depend significantly on the availability and performance of key players. For Nottinghamshire, Alex Hales can be a game-changer, while Birmingham’s trio of Moeen Ali, Beau Webster, and Chris Woakes are capable of dictating the flow of the match. While both sides are well-matched in the batting department, the Bears appear to hold a distinct advantage with their more versatile and reliable bowling lineup.

Based on current form and squad balance, Birmingham Bears are better positioned to start their season with a win.

Prediction: Birmingham Bears to win.