On a sunny day at New Road, Ed Pollock led the charge for Worcestershire in a simple chase against Hampshire, as the inexperienced attack once again thrived to secure an eight-wicket victory.
The Rapids continue to impress in the Metro Bank One Day Cup, with this win being their fifth in seven games. This victory keeps them on track to clinch a top-three spot needed to progress to the next stage of the tournament. Maintaining a perfect home record, Worcestershire has proven their dominance at New Road with wins over Middlesex, Durham, and Kent.
Despite missing eight senior players due to injury, Worcestershire’s young and inexperienced attack put on a stellar performance, dismissing Hampshire for a meagre 164 runs in 47.4 overs. Academy player Jack Home stood out with three wickets, bringing his tally to 15 in just four One Day Cup games. Ethan Brookes also shone with the ball, while spinners Fateh Singh and Tom Hinley controlled proceedings effectively.
Gareth Roderick and Ed Pollock ensured there were no hiccups for the Rapids in chasing down the target. Pollock, in particular, was in fine form, reaching his half-century off just 44 balls. Roderick played the perfect supporting role, contributing 47 runs to the opening stand. Hampshire, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance but remain in contention to qualify.
Both teams made changes to their lineup, with Home and Hishaam Khan coming in for Worcestershire, while Hampshire saw Joe Weatherley and Mohammad Abbas replace Joseph Eckland and Eddie Jack. Brookes, known for his economical bowling, continued his impressive form and picked up a wicket in his very first over.
Singh and Brookes kept the pressure on the Hampshire batters, with Abbott falling to Hinley’s spin. Roderick’s dismissal brought about a brief moment of joy for Hampshire, but Jones and Libby saw Worcestershire comfortably cross the finishing line with over 13 overs to spare.
In the aftermath of the match, Worcestershire’s coach praised the team’s performance, stating, “I am delighted with how the young bowlers have stepped up in the absence of our senior players. Their discipline and composure have been impressive.” Meanwhile, Hampshire’s captain acknowledged the need for improvement, saying, “We need to regroup and come back stronger in the next game. We know we are capable of better performances.”
As Worcestershire celebrates another convincing win, they look ahead to upcoming matches with confidence, knowing that their young talents are more than capable of delivering under pressure.
