Worcestershire vs Nottinghamshire Prediction, Players, Standings, Odds: 17/7/2025

Worcestershire and Nottinghamshire meet in a critical showdown on Thursday at New Road, Worcester, with both sides locked on 24 points. Despite being level, Worcestershire edge ahead in the standings due to a superior net run rate—though they’ve played one more fixture. With the league stages winding down, this encounter could prove decisive in shaping the playoff race.

Worcestershire: Seeking a Final Push in a Tight Race

Worcestershire enter this fixture in fifth position, having claimed six victories across 13 matches. Their recent form suggests a squad peaking at the right time—they’ve secured three wins in their last four games and are aiming to close out the group stage on a high. A win here could significantly enhance their playoff prospects, given this is their final league match.

Key Players to Watch

• Ethan Brookes has been the batting linchpin for Worcestershire, amassing 323 runs in 13 innings. His 30.00 average and 155.28 strike rate underscore his aggressive yet consistent approach at the crease.
• Gareth Roderick, playing a stabilizing role in the middle order, has contributed 305 runs with a nearly identical average and an impressive strike rate of 127.61.
• Kashif Ali and Ben Dwarshuis have also added firepower, lending depth and versatility to the batting line-up.

On the bowling front, Dwarshuis is once again a standout performer. He’s picked up 18 wickets at an economy of 8.38. Supporting him are Tom Taylor (13 wickets) and Fateh Singh (11), both of whom have delivered timely breakthroughs.

Predicted XI: Isaac Mohammed, Brett D’Oliveira (c), Gareth Roderick (wk), Kashif Ali, Ethan Brookes, Ben Dwarshuis, Henry Cullen, Tom Taylor, Fateh Singh, Adam Finch, Khurram Shahzad

Nottinghamshire: Momentum Gaining, but Margin for Error Shrinking

After a slow start to the season, Nottinghamshire have finally found their stride. Early struggles saw them drop five of their first eight games, but they’ve bounced back with three wins from their last four. Still, they remain seventh on the table, and a negative net run rate (-0.565) leaves little room for slip-ups.

Players in Form

• Joe Clarke, the captain, has led from the front, compiling 402 runs at an average of 33.50 and a brisk strike rate of 165.43. His form will be pivotal in this high-stakes clash.
• Tom Moores and Jack Haynes have added over 300 runs each, offering much-needed stability to the batting order.
• The bowling has seen a shared load, with Matthew Montgomery, Daniel Sams, Liam Patterson-White, Olly Stone, and Calvin Harrison each picking up 12–13 wickets. While none have been outright dominant, the group collectively has the potential to deliver under pressure.

Predicted XI: Joe Clarke (c), Freddie McCann, Jack Haynes, Moises Henriques, Tom Moores (wk), Daniel Sams, Matthew Montgomery, Liam Patterson-White, Calvin Harrison, Dillon Pennington, Olly Stone

Match Conditions and Tactical Considerations

New Road in Worcester is known for its unpredictable behavior. Some days it’s a batter’s paradise; on others, seam and spin bowlers enjoy early assistance and late grip. Bowlers who maintain control during the opening overs can shift the balance early. With square boundaries being short, even mis-hits can carry over the ropes—meaning bowlers must remain disciplined.

Weather Outlook

Thursday’s forecast predicts humid conditions, with the possibility of storms later in the day. However, there’s optimism that the full 20 overs per side can be played.

Statistical Edge: Toss and Scoring Trends

• Average first-innings score at this venue: ~171
• Highest total this season: Worcestershire’s 201/5 against Yorkshire
• Chasing teams hold the edge: Out of 72 domestic T20s at New Road, 42 have been won by the side batting second

Given these numbers, winning the toss and opting to bowl first remains the smart move.

Prediction: Slight Edge for Worcestershire

This match has all the makings of a thriller. Both teams have matched each other in terms of points, but Worcestershire’s consistent run and superior net run rate give them a slight advantage. Importantly, they defeated Nottinghamshire earlier in the tournament and are playing their final league game with high motivation.

On the other hand, Nottinghamshire still have two matches left to play, which could ease their pressure—but they must address their net run rate issue promptly.

Prediction: Worcestershire to win—but expect a closely fought battle with momentum shifts throughout.