The biggest Vitality Blast T20 fixture of the season takes place later this month at EdgBLASTon Stadium, as Warwickshire Bears take on Worcestershire Rapids on Friday 26 June.
As we build up to a huge double-header at The People’s Home of Cricket, which will see the Bears Women playing Surrey at 3:00pm before the huge local derby gets under way at 7:00pm, we’re highlighting some of the key head-to-heads that could decide the fixture.
First up, the bowlers. It’s Bears legend Chris Woakes against Pears opening quick Adam Finch…
Chris Woakes
The Wizard needs no introduction. The right arm quick has done it all in the game but has designs on more success for the Bears. A double-World Cup winner and Ashes Player of the Series in 2023, Woakes has represented England on 217 occasions across formats, including 33 times in T20 internationals.
In domestic short-form cricket, Woakes has played 91 times for the Bears since he made his first start for the Club in the Blast back in 2008. In that time, he’s taken 90 wickets at an average of 26.54, but more importantly, produced when it mattered in 2014. With the Blast title on the line, Woakes held his nerve in the final over against Lancashire to bring a first title to the Club.
A world-class operator with the ball, don’t forget his abilities with the bat, which could prove crucial when the Pears come to town.
Adam Finch
At 26-years-old, Finch continued to prove his worth at Worcestershire after coming through the ranks at the county as a talented paceman. He made his T20 Blast debut back in 2020 after impressing for England Under 19s at the 2018 World Cup, and is now a seasoned campaigner with 38 Blast games under his belt.
He’s also been impressive in this year’s competition. Through six games, in terms of wickets taken, he’s putting together his best season to date. Finch has become a vital part of the Pears attack with 12 wickets at an average of just 15.83. It’s an impressive return for the right arm quick, who sits in a share of third on the leading wicket-takers list for 2026.
Finch took two wickets when the teams met at New Road back in May, and will be hoping to add to that tally at EdgBLASTon.
Watch live
Tickets for the derby are still available. Make sure you’re there. Buy your tickets here.
Bears v Pears. The ultimate fan experience.
Digbeth Dining Club. Pravha Band. The best atmosphere in the Blast. One big rivalry. Bears v Pears returns on Friday 26 June.
Just imagine; a packed out stadium, the best summer night out – and YOU. Buy tickets in advance and save, while group offers are available for bookings of 5+.