SURREY V WARWICKSHIRE at the AMP Oval (CC1), 10-13 JULY 2002

Surrey may have beaten Warwickshire by an innings in three out of their last four championship meetings.  It may also be true that the last time tomorrow's visitors tasted championship success at The Oval was way back in May 1975.  But there are a number of reasons why Adam Hollioake's men should take their opponents more seriously than their standing in the Division One table warrants.

If familiarity breeds contempt Michael Powell's young charges should be shown their rapidly acquired respect.  For two years these adversaries have only crossed swords in the Norwich Union League.  Consequently, Surrey will be facing a number of players for the first time.  Although it may not seem right for the Oval outfit to be wary of a side packed with new faces, each one looks as though they could be part of any success that comes Warwickshire's way in years to come.

Nobody will arrive with a bigger reputation than Ian Bell, who is being talked about as the new Michael Atherton.  That said, he has only made one half-century in the championship this season.  23-year-old James Troughton, who has just broken into Warwickshire's first team, is averaging 58.49 with the bat, though

With the ball Graham Wagg, James Spires and Neil Carter have been particularly impressive so far.  But, needless to say, the bowling department has been led by Shaun Pollock who has taken 20 championship wickets at 26.40 runs apiece in addition to his 298 runs at an average of 24.83.

After losing on their first two championship outings Warwickshire have not been beaten since, plus they have won two out of their last three.  Weather permitting this will be an intriguing encounter, especially if Surrey are missing Ormond in addition to Bicknell and Tudor.  But you're waiting for a prediction, aren't you?  I'll play safe and say this one will end in a draw.

Tim Murtagh, who took three for 38 on Sunday, is on standby for James Ormond.  Otherwise, the team will be the same as the one that played at Taunton.

M Powell (capt), I Bell, M Wagh, D Ostler, J Troughton, S Pollock, M Betts, N Smith, K Piper (wk), N Carter and J Spires.

21-23 Jul 1999	Won By An Innings & 123 Runs	Edgbaston
23-27 Apr 1998	Won By An Innings & 49 Runs	The Oval
2-5 Jul 1997	Lost By 5 Wickets	Edgbaston
29-31 Aug 1996	Won By An Innings & 164 Runs	The Oval
4-8 May 1995	Lost By 91 Runs	Edgbaston
14-18 Jul 1994	Lost By 256 Runs	Guildford
17-18 Jun 1993	Won By 8 Wickets	Edgbaston
17-20 Jul 1992	Match Drawn	Guildford

GO TO:

BACK TO: