Worcestershire claimed their first 50-over title in 31 years after a dramatic rain-affected One-Day Cup final against Hampshire at Trent Bridge. Chasing a revised target of 188 from 27 overs, the Pears secured victory by three wickets with just two balls to spare, sparking joyous celebrations among players, staff, and supporters.
The occasion was about far more than silverware. For Worcestershire, this triumph was a poignant tribute to their late teammate, Josh Baker, who tragically passed away last year just before his 21st birthday. The team has carried his memory throughout the season, with their shirts displaying the name of the charity created in his honor. After lifting the trophy, captain Jake Libby presented it to Baker’s parents, Paul and Lisa, in a deeply emotional moment.
The final itself was a contest full of drama. Rain interruptions had threatened to push the match into a reserve day, but Worcestershire’s resilience shone through. Ethan Brookes delivered a match-defining performance, blasting 57 from just 34 balls, including four towering sixes. Entering the chase at a tricky 93 for three, his aggressive stroke play swung momentum decisively in his team’s favor.
Matthew Waite was another standout, contributing both with bat and ball. He claimed three wickets, including a sharp caught-and-bowled to dismiss century-maker Ali Orr, who struck 110 for Hampshire. Waite then returned to smash two vital sixes late in the innings, ensuring the run chase stayed alive under mounting pressure.
Hampshire, meanwhile, had their moments of hope. Young pacer Scott Currie, returning from England duty in Ireland, produced a maiden List A five-wicket haul to threaten Worcestershire’s progress. At one stage, when Currie removed Libby to leave Worcestershire 107 for four, the match appeared to tilt in Hampshire’s favor. Yet, the Pears showed remarkable composure, refusing to let the opportunity slip away.
The game’s decisive moment came when Kyle Abbott thought he had dismissed Henry Cullen in the deep with just a handful of runs needed. However, replays showed Abbott had brushed the boundary rope, confirming a crucial four runs for Worcestershire. From there, destiny seemed set.
This victory was about more than cricketing success. It was a symbol of resilience, community, and remembrance, ensuring that while the Hundred may dominate headlines, county cricket still holds stories of meaning and heart.
