County Ground, Chelmsford: Vitality Blast T20 | Pitch Report | Key Cricket Stats | Cricket Prediction | Top Batsman | Top Bowlers (2022–2025)

A venue that often serves up runs and drama, Chelmsford has been one of the higher-scoring grounds in the Vitality Blast across recent seasons. Essex Eagles’ home turf tends to favor batters, but smart bowlers—especially during the middle and death overs—still find opportunities to strike.

CHELMSFORD, ENGLAND – JULY 01: A general view of play during the Vitality T20 Blast match between Essex Eagles and Glamorgan at Cloudfm County Ground on July 01, 2021 in Chelmsford, England. (Photo by Jacques Feeney/Getty Images)

If you’re a fan of attacking cricket, Chelmsford rarely disappoints.

Bowling Performance – Spin vs Pace

Bowling TypeBowling AverageEconomy Rate
Spin Bowlers26.239.24
Fast Bowlers28.239.50

Both spin and pace bowlers have been expensive at Chelmsford, with economy rates pushing above 9 runs per over. Spinners edge ahead slightly in average, suggesting they may be more effective at breaking partnerships during the middle overs.

This isn’t a ground where bowlers dominate—containing runs becomes just as important as picking up wickets.

First Innings Score Trends

YearAvg 1st Innings Score
2022192.14
2023189.43
2024184.00

Chelmsford consistently produces scores around the 190 mark, making it one of the more batter-friendly venues in the country. Even though there’s a slight dip in 2024, the pitch still heavily rewards positive stroke play and aggressive batting.

Wickets Breakdown

Innings-wise Wickets:

InningsAvg Wickets Fallen
First Innings7.32
Second Innings5.86

Overs Phase:

PhaseAvg Wickets Per Innings
Powerplay Overs1.61
Middle Overs2.80
Death Overs2.40

Middle overs are where most wickets fall at Chelmsford, offering spinners and change-up bowlers a golden opportunity to control the innings. The death overs also see frequent breakthroughs, making death specialists especially valuable here.

Top Run Scorers at County Ground, Chelmsford (2022–2025)

PlayerRuns Scored
Michael Pepper708
Paul Walter499
Adam Rossington410
Matt Critchley313
Daniel Sams294

Michael Pepper has dominated at this venue, racking up over 700 runs and anchoring several big totals. Paul Walter and Adam Rossington offer steady contributions as well, while Critchley and Sams add value with their all-round abilities.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JULY 15: Michael Pepper of Essex bats during the Vitality Blast T20 Semi-Final between Essex Eagles and Hampshire Hawks at Edgbaston on July 15, 2023 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley – ECB/ECB via Getty Images)

Top Wicket Takers at County Ground, Chelmsford (2022–2025)

PlayerWickets Taken
Matt Critchley26
Daniel Sams24
Simon Harmer19
Sam Cook15
Paul Walter12

Critchley and Sams lead the charge with a mix of pace and spin, making them excellent fantasy league picks. Simon Harmer continues to be a threat through the middle, while Sam Cook and Paul Walter offer support across different phases.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JULY 15: Paul Walter of Essex Eagles celebrates after dismissing Tom Abell of Somerset during the Vitality Blast T20 Final between Essex Eagles and Somerset at Edgbaston on July 15, 2023 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

Tactical & Betting Tips

  • Back aggressive batters like Pepper and Rossington in your fantasy lineups—Chelmsford favors stroke-makers.
  • Daniel Sams is a top bet for wicket-taking and fantasy points with both bat and ball.
  • Avoid loading up on bowlers—while a few can shine, this is largely a batting venue. Use your budget wisely to prioritize top-order hitters.