Essex vs Surrey Prediction: Who Will Win 31st ODI Match on 15th August 2025?
The Essex vs Surrey prediction for the 31st ODI of the England One Day Cup 2025 promises a contest between two sides searching for consistency. The match is scheduled for Friday, 15th August 2025 at the Essex County Cricket Ground, Chelmsford. Surrey come into this clash buoyed by their first win of the season, a rain-affected chase where skipper Ben Foakes smashed a quick-fire 43 off 17 balls. Essex, however, are under pressure after three straight losses despite having a solid top order. Both teams will be aiming to correct their flaws — Surrey need top-order runs, while Essex must fix their bowling discipline. Cricketwebs provides 100% match prediction tips for every cricket match, and here’s the detailed breakdown for ESS vs SUR.
Match Details
| Match | ESS vs SUR, 31st ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 15th August 2025 |
| Time | 3:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Essex County Cricket Ground, Chelmsford |
Team Previews
Essex Preview
Essex Eagles are reeling after three consecutive defeats, the latest against Worcestershire where they conceded 340 runs. Skipper Tom Westley will want his bowlers to show discipline, as defending or chasing high totals on this ground is challenging. The batting lineup remains their strength, with Robin Das in fine form, scoring 51, 50, and 46 in his last three innings. Matthew Critchley has been a key contributor both as an opener and with his leg-spin, while Westley and Charlie Allison provide solidity in the middle order. Luc Benkenstein and Noah Thain add depth to the lower middle order. The problem lies in converting starts into match-winning knocks. On the bowling side, Shane Snater leads the pace attack, supported by all-round options like Critchley and Benkenstein. To break their losing streak, Essex must make early inroads with the ball and ensure at least two batters cross 70+ runs.
Surrey Preview
Surrey’s confidence will be lifted after their first win against Glamorgan, but their batting concerns persist. Rory Burns and Adam Thomas at the top have struggled for impact, putting pressure on the middle order. Ollie Sykes remains their most reliable batter, with a near-century in the second game, but others must step up. Ben Foakes’ captaincy innings of 43 off 17 balls in the last match showed he can be a game-changer under pressure. Nikhil Gorantla’s poor form is an issue, while the depth offered by Cameron Steel and Josh Blake is yet to translate into runs. The bowling unit, featuring James Taylor and Yousef Majid in spin, and Nathan Barnwell in pace, has been steady but not exceptional. Surrey’s key to victory will be early wickets to put Essex under scoreboard pressure and letting their middle order chase a manageable target.
Squads
Essex: Robin Das, Matthew Critchley, Tom Westley (c), Charlie Allison, Luc Benkenstein, Noah Thain, Nick Browne, Simon Fernandes (wk), Shane Snater, Jamal Richards, Charlie Bennett
Surrey: Rory Burns, Adam Thomas, Ollie Sykes, Ben Foakes (c), Cameron Steel, Josh Blake (wk), Nikhil Gorantla, Yousef Majid, James Taylor, Nathan Barnwell, Alexander French
Probable Playing XI
Essex: Robin Das, Matthew Critchley, Tom Westley (c), Charlie Allison, Luc Benkenstein, Noah Thain, Nick Browne, Simon Fernandes (wk), Shane Snater, Jamal Richards, Charlie Bennett
Surrey: Rory Burns, Adam Thomas, Ollie Sykes, Ben Foakes (c), Cameron Steel, Josh Blake (wk), Nikhil Gorantla, Yousef Majid, James Taylor, Nathan Barnwell, Alexander French
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Ben Foakes (C), Simon Fernandes |
| BAT | Robin Das, Ollie Sykes, Charlie Allison |
| AR | Matthew Critchley (VC), Tom Westley, Luc Benkenstein |
| BOWL | Shane Snater, James Taylor, Nathan Barnwell |
Captain Choices:
- Ben Foakes – match-winning potential in pressure chases.
- Matthew Critchley – reliable with bat and ball.
Vice-Captain Choices:
- Matthew Critchley – all-round contribution potential.
- Ollie Sykes – Surrey’s in-form batter.
Players to Avoid:
- Nikhil Gorantla – poor form this season.
- Adam Thomas – inconsistent starts at the top.
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Essex are favourites due to their stronger batting depth and home advantage. Their top five — Das, Critchley, Westley, Allison, and Benkenstein — are all capable of match-defining knocks. On this ground, batting first and posting a big score often tilts the game, and Essex have the tools to do exactly that. While Surrey’s bowling can trouble them, the inexperience and inconsistency in their batting make it hard to see them chasing or setting a huge total. Unless Surrey’s spinners deliver big, Essex should dominate proceedings.
Pitch Report
Chelmsford is a batting-friendly track with an average first-innings score of around 285 in recent matches. Pacers get swing early, but as the ball gets older, batting becomes easier. Spinners can be effective in the middle overs.
Weather Report
Clear skies expected with temperatures around 24°C. Minimal rain threat, humidity around 60%, and gentle breeze — ideal conditions for cricket.
Broadcast Details
Live Streaming: Fancode & YouTube
Toss Prediction
Winner: Surrey
Decision: Bowl first to utilize early swing and restrict Essex to under 260.
Match Prediction
Our Winner: Essex will win.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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