2021 County Championship – Surrey vs Leicestershire Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Surrey vs Leicestershire taking place? Thursday 15th April, 2021 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Surrey vs Leicestershire taking place? The Kia Oval, London
What is the expected weather for Surrey vs Leicestershire? Dry with sunny intervals on Days 1, 2, 3 and 4, with temperatures reaching highs of 14c on Day 4.
Where can I get tickets for Surrey vs Leicestershire? The County Championship will initially be played without spectators but it is worth checking each county’s official website for updates
What channel is Surrey vs Leicestershire on? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Surrey vs Leicestershire? Matches can be streamed live on the official websites of the First-Class Counties
THE PREDICTION
It was a miserable opening County Championship fixture for Leicestershire as the sizable difference in quality between them and a number of other sides in Group 2 was ruthlessly exposed by Hampshire. A double century for batsman James Vince, alongside 119 for Tom Alsop and 152 not out for all-rounder Liam Dawson saw Hampshire declare their first innings on 612 for the loss of just five wickets. Leicestershire were subsequently bowled out for 202 and 305 to lose by an innings and 105 runs. Surrey also fell to defeat, although their loss was more of a surprise due to the number of England stars turning out for the visitors away at Gloucestershire. A subpar first innings score of 220 did the damage for Surrey and they never fully recovered, despite 133 from wicketkeeper Ben Foakes and 74 from captain Rory Burns in their second innings. Gloucestershire ultimately chased down their winning target of 228 for the loss of just two wickets.
With home advantage in their favour and the superior quality of players at their disposal, there is little excuse for Surrey not to win this match. They have international quality throughout their batting and West Indian overseas fast bowler Kemar Roach will significantly boost the bowling as he makes his debut for the hosts at the Kia Oval. Unfortunately for Leicestershire, their overseas player will not be available as Australian opening batsman Marcus Harris quarantines following his arrival into the UK. Without Harris, it’s very difficult to envisage any outcome other than a Surrey victory.
