tadley

It looks a step up for Garcia on paper, but he's beaten some solid fighters and looks a lively outsider in this one. I have little doubt he will win the exchanges on the feet. He takes surprisingly little damage and throws an abundance of quality punches and kicks. Even if not finishing his opponent, he should impress the judges. Lopes has to take this to the mat to win, in my opinion, but that won't be easy with Garcia's defence.

Kyle Daukaus is on a six-fight winning run and has been in with some tough guys. He's a wily campaigner and will be tough to put away. Nickal is an impressive fighter, especially on the mat, and his striking is also coming along. He has the tools to impress the judges, but putting Daukaus away won't be easy.

Clare won in 2024, but last year it didn't go well. Severe injury problems probably took their toll. They look in better shape this time and can certainly mix it with the best.

Lancashire underperformed, finishing 5th despite having a strong squad. They've really impressed with signings over the winter, enrolling quality players at this level, so I see them doing a lot better than 5th.

Warwickshire finished down in 5th last season but were hampered by drawing nine games, the most in the league. They've strengthened their squad and look capable of a better performance this season.

Verstappen kept himself in the title race last season despite clearly not having the best car. That speaks volumes about his skill, which should see him once again go well this season. Despite him slamming the new regulation, it should be to his benefit as he has the skills to master the new designs. The Red Bull has looked very promising in practice, so I rate him as the most likely winner.