Somerset vs Birmingham Prediction: Who Will Win 40th ODI Match on 17th August 2025?

The Somerset vs Birmingham prediction for the 40th ODI in the One-Day Cup 2025 promises to be a close contest as both teams are chasing valuable points in Group B. Somerset have enjoyed a strong campaign so far with three wins from four games, while Birmingham Bears remain in contention with two victories from their four matches. With both sides separated by just one win, the stakes are high at Taunton. Somerset will aim to extend their dominance at home, while Birmingham Bears will be desperate to cause an upset. In this Somerset vs Birmingham 40th ODI prediction, we analyze the squads, key players, pitch conditions, and fantasy team tips to help you make informed choices.

Match Details

Team Previews

Somerset Preview

Somerset have been one of the most consistent teams in Group B of the One-Day Cup 2025. With three wins out of four, they are well-placed in the top three of the points table. Their biggest strength lies in their batting depth and the reliability of James Rew, who has been exceptional both as captain and wicketkeeper-batter. Alongside him, Archie Vaughan has impressed with a career-best 95 against Yorkshire, while Lewis Goldsworthy and Thomas Rew have also played vital innings under pressure.

The bowling attack is equally balanced with the experience of Jack Leach, who controls the middle overs, and Jake Ball, who has been in brilliant wicket-taking form, claiming multiple three- and four-wicket hauls. Ben Green adds balance as a genuine all-rounder. Playing at home in Taunton further boosts their chances, given their familiarity with the conditions. Somerset will look to carry their winning momentum and tighten their grip on the qualification race.

Key Players: James Rew, Archie Vaughan, Jake Ball, Jack Leach

Birmingham Bears Preview

Birmingham Bears head into this clash after an inconsistent start in the tournament. They have managed two wins out of four, which places them 4th in the table. The batting has been their weak link, with collapses against Yorkshire and Middlesex costing them crucial points. Despite that, young batter Vaansh Jani has been a shining light, showing promise with a fighting 82 on debut. Captain Ed Barnard and experienced campaigner Alex Davies will need to step up if the Bears are to post competitive totals against a strong Somerset bowling lineup.

The bowling department, however, has been Birmingham’s major strength. Jake Lintott’s variations have troubled opposition batters, highlighted by his five-for against Middlesex. Oliver Hannon-Dalby provides control with the new ball, while Adam Sylvester adds pace and aggression. The Bears’ head-to-head record against Somerset offers some hope, as they have won three of the last five encounters. If their batting finds consistency, they could give Somerset a tough challenge at Taunton.

Key Players: Ed Barnard, Jake Lintott, Oliver Hannon-Dalby

Probable Playing XI

Somerset: Tom Lammonby, Archie Vaughan, Lewis Goldsworthy, James Rew (C & WK), Thomas Rew, Joshua F Thomas, Ben Green, Kasey Aldridge, Jack Leach, James Theedom, Jake Ball

Birmingham Bears: Robert Yates, Ed Barnard (C), Zen Malik, Alex Davies, Hamza Shaikh, Kai Smith (WK), Vaansh Jani, Jake Lintott, Tazeem Chaudry Ali, Adam Sylvester, Oliver Hannon-Dalby

Fantasy Team XI

Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

• Captain: James Rew
• Vice-Captain: Jake Ball

Players to Avoid:

• Zen Malik (out of form)
• Kasey Aldridge (not contributing consistently)

Favourite Team in Today’s Match

Somerset enter this contest as the favourites, largely due to their consistency and the balance within their squad. Their batting has been steady, with James Rew and Archie Vaughan providing reliability at the top. More importantly, their bowling attack has regularly delivered breakthroughs, with Jake Ball and Jack Leach proving difficult for opposition batters to counter. Playing at Taunton is an additional advantage for Somerset as they are well-acquainted with the pitch conditions, often using the slower surface to their benefit.

On the other hand, Birmingham Bears’ batting fragility is a concern. Although their bowlers, led by Jake Lintott, have impressed, the lack of consistent partnerships with the bat has hurt them. Against a strong Somerset side, these weaknesses may be exposed further. With the home crowd behind them and their players in form, Somerset look better positioned to claim another crucial victory in this fixture.

Pitch Report

The pitch at Taunton is known for high-scoring games but also offers assistance to spinners in the middle overs. Batters who settle early can capitalize, but stroke play isn’t always easy due to variable bounce.

Weather Report

The forecast for August 17 in Taunton is partly cloudy with mild temperatures around 20°C. Rain is not expected, ensuring a full game.

Broadcast Details

• Live Streaming: Fancode & YouTube

Score Prediction

• If Somerset Bat First: 271+
• If Birmingham Bat First: 245+

Toss Prediction

• Winner: Birmingham Bears (likely to bowl first)

Match Prediction

Our Winner: Somerset will win this match

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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