Joe Leach rallies the Rapids for cup clash
Skipper Joe Leach says confidence has not been affected by Worcestershire’s back-to-back County Championship defeats going into tomorrow’s Royal London One-Day Cup semi-final with Surrey at New Road.
The former Shropshire all-rounder has been buoyed by the return of Moeen Ali and Australia’s John Hastings from the ICC Champions Trophy.
Leach called on the Rapids to produce a “vibrant” performance and “really rise to the occasion” in their first semi-final for 13 years. He points to their outstanding form in topping the North Group as an indicator of what they are capable of.
Now they will aiming to topple a Surrey side – skippered by ex-Worcestershire spinner Gareth Batty – who overcame Yorkshire Vikings at Headingley in Tuesday’s play-off match.
“My message is very much one of confidence,” said the former Shrewsbury School student.
“We topped that North Group and played some very good cricket in that month of one-day cricket. We’ve Surrey coming here, it’s our ground, it’s our turf, it’s our support, and we are fully expecting to put in a good performance and win the game.
“Is there any problems with confidence after two Championship defeats? I don’t think so.
“Our one-day cricket, the way we play, is full of confidence and I want our guys to be vibrant and really rise to the occasion.”
