Predicting MID’s Playing XI for the South Group Match against SUR in Vitality Blast 2025

The Vitality Blast 2025 South Group clash between Middlesex (MID) and Surrey (SUR) promises to be an exciting game. In their last Vitality Blast game, MID lost out to Kent at Canterbury, but had glimpses of brilliance that set up an exciting contest ahead. With the season in full swing and each match counting, MID will be looking to bounce back strongly. Surrey will provide a tough test for Middlesex, so selection will be key. Let’s jump into the projected playing XI for Middlesex based on recent form and who could potentially be the players to look out for in this important contest.

Opening Flames

The pair that opens for Middlesex will be key for them to get off to a good start. Ben Geddes, despite getting out for 22 off 15 balls against Kent, showed signs of intent, hitting two fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 146.66. Geddes’s capability to take the game to the bowlers early on can often give Middlesex the momentum that they need.

With Geddes, Stephen Eskinazi, who had a disappointing last outing getting out for 2 runs, has the experience and ability, if needed, to stabilise the innings to steady things if the slow early start. As a steady accumulator with an allowance for aggression, Eskinazi’s provides an excellent piece to try to build together at the top of the order. They’re capable of unleashing a flurry of runs to take the innings to another level.

Middle Order

The resilience of Middlesex’s innings was in the middle order, in particular Leus du Plooy and Ryan Higgins. Du Plooy’s unbeaten 68 off 45 balls with eight fours and two sixes was the highlight of the innings and demonstrated his ability to steer the innings in challenging periods.

Ryan Higgins played a fundamental finisher’s role for his useful 19, off a strike rate just over 100, and he clearly can ramp up the innings at the death. Joe Cracknell is a reliable middle-order hitter who contributed 24 off 15 balls in the last game. Cracknell can roll the score over and stand at the right end of the bat, and produces boundary shots when appropriate for an explosive hitter.

All-Rounders

Middlesex relies on Luke Hollman, a star all-rounder who can turn the game with bat or ball. His quick 14 in 7 balls at a remarkable strike rate of 200 showed what he can do as a pinch hitter lower down the order, which can push the innings in the last few overs.

Ryan Higgins can also contribute as an all-rounder, with useful contributions with the ball too. His wicket-taking offers more depth to Middlesex’s bowling attack and flexibility in the batting line-up, being a key game changer in both innings.

Bowlers

Middlesex’s bowling attack will lean heavily on the spin partnership of Zafar Gohar and Tom Helm. Gohar has an impressive record of 3 over for 22 runs and 1 wicket against Kent, which indicates that he will be able to control the middle overs and break partnerships. Although Helm’s record of 4 overs for 29 runs and 1 wicket is respectable, it shows he is consistent and can pressure the batsmen by hitting his mark with line and length.

Middlesex will also rely on Josh Little, who, despite conceding 44 runs in 3 overs, is capable of bowling with deadly pace and creating momentum changes with a breakthrough. If he can find his rhythm and accuracy, he can be a serious threat to Surrey’s batting lineup.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!