Cup defence a motivation for Pears - Richardson

Head coach Alan Richardson believes the role of One-Day Cup holders will give Worcestershire extra motivation rather than pressure.

The Pears beat Hampshire with just two balls to spare in a thrilling final at Trent Bridge last September to win the 50-over competition for the first time.

Worcestershire begin their defence against Derbyshire at New Road on Friday in their opening Group B game.

"Hopefully there will be no pressure in being the holders," Richardson told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"It was a really enjoyable campaign last year and a very memorable day and it's something that we should hold on to and want to reproduce.

"So hopefully being holders should be more of a motivational tool than anything."

Former fast bowler Richardson took over as head coach in 2022 after an 18-year playing career and won promotion in his first season, but says last year's trophy win holds a special place.

Losing left-arm spinner Josh Baker, who died in May 2024 at the age of 20, gave the trophy win extra meaning.

"No matter how long you're in cricket you get a handful of amazing days that you want to really remember and hold on to, and that is one for many reasons," he said.

"Obviously the club winning a trophy, but also in the memory of Josh as well.

"We played some really good cricket in the campaign and it culminated in that very special day for us."

Worcestershire will face a rematch with Hampshire and also play 2024 winners Glamorgan in a hectic schedule of eight group matches in 18 days.

They will be without Jack Home for a spell following his injury last week, while fellow bowler Adam Finch will represent Manchester Super Giants in the Hundred.

"We've had a lot of things thrown at us in this competition over the last couple of years, a lot of injuries and a lot of other things," said Richardson.

"No doubt we'll have a lot of things thrown at us again, but this group are amazingly resilient and stick together really well, so the next three weeks should be something we really enjoy."