Gloucestershire will face Essex Eagles at the County Ground, Bristol in the South Group of the 2024 Vitality Blast. The match is scheduled to start at 18:30 local time on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
GLO vs ESS, County Ground, Bristol Pitch Report
The pitch at the County Ground in Bristol is known for its short, straight boundaries, making it a favorable venue for stroke-makers. A par score here is expected to be around 175, with batsmen likely to dominate the game.
Gloucestershire Team News & Playing 11
GLO Team News
Gloucestershire had a challenging 2023 T20 Blast season, finishing seventh in the South Group with five wins and nine losses. They will look to improve their performance in 2024, bolstered by the presence of overseas players Cameron Bancroft, Beau Webster, and Zafar Gohar, who are available throughout the tournament.
GLO Team Batting
The batting lineup is anchored by captain Miles Hammond and Cameron Bancroft at the top. They aim to set a solid foundation for middle-order batsmen like Ben Wells and James Bracey. Lower down the order, David Payne can contribute with some useful hitting.
GLO Team Bowling
David Payne, an England international, is expected to be a key bowler with his left-arm pace, particularly effective in the opening overs. Zafar Gohar will be a crucial spinner, looking to entice batters into playing aggressive shots against his turn.
GLO Team Form
Gloucestershire ended their last T20 Blast campaign with three defeats in their final four games, looking to turn around their fortunes this season.
Gloucestershire Predicted Playing 11
Miles Hammond (c), Cameron Bancroft, Ben Charlesworth, Ben Wells, James Bracey, Graeme van Buuren, Zafar Gohar, Jack Taylor, David Payne, Zaman Akhter, Tom Smith
Essex Team News & Playing 11
ESS Team News
Essex Eagles reached the final of the 2023 T20 Blast and will be aiming to clinch the title in 2024. They will miss Dan Lawrence, who has moved to Surrey, leaving a gap at the top of the order.
ESS Team Batting
Essex has a strong lineup of all-rounders. Australian Daniel Sams, who was the top scorer for Essex in 2023, remains a key threat in the lower order, while Adam Rossington will be the primary big hitter at the top.
ESS Team Bowling
Daniel Sams was not only the top scorer but also the leading wicket-taker for Essex last year. His left-arm fast-medium bowling will be crucial on the pacey Bristol pitch. Simon Harmer will provide control with his spin, and Sam Cook will be a key threat with the new ball.
ESS Team Form
Essex Eagles had a strong finish to their 2023 T20 Blast campaign, losing only two of their last five matches.
Essex Predicted Playing 11
Adam Rossington (wk), Michael Pepper, Ben Allison, Robin Das, Charlie Allison, Matt Critchley, Paul Walter, Daniel Sams, Simon Harmer (c), Sam Cook, Aaron Beard
Match Prediction
Gloucestershire vs Essex Prediction
Gloucestershire have a rich history in white-ball cricket and will be eager to start their 2024 campaign with a home victory. However, they face a formidable Essex Eagles side, rich in experience and quality. Considering the form and strength of both teams, Essex Eagles are favored to win this match.
Prediction: Essex to beat Gloucestershire.