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The 29th match of the Men’s Super Smash 2024-25 will see Central Stags take on Auckland Aces at McLean Park, Napier, on Wednesday. The Stags have been dominant throughout the tournament, securing their place in the final despite their last two games being washed out. Meanwhile, the Aces missed a crucial opportunity against Wellington Firebirds and now find themselves in a must-win scenario. With everything still on the line for Auckland, this contest promises to be a high-stakes battle.
Match Details
| Fixture | Central Stags vs Auckland Aces |
|---|---|
| Date | January 31, 2024 |
| Time | 11:00 AM IST |
| Venue | McLean Park, Napier |
Teams Preview
Central Stags Preview
Central Stags have been one of the most consistent teams in this year’s Super Smash, securing their place in the final well before the group stage concluded. However, their last two matches were affected by rain, with their most recent game against Canterbury Kings ending prematurely when they were struggling at 45/6. That performance would have been a major concern, but the batting-friendly conditions at Napier should help them return to their dominant form.
Curtis Heaphy was the only batter to reach double digits in that rain-shortened game, while experienced campaigners Will Young, Jack Boyle, and Tom Bruce will be eager to put that disappointment behind them and post a big total. Dane Cleaver remains a key figure in the batting lineup, and the Stags will need him to anchor the innings.
Their bowling attack has been freshened up due to the unexpected break, and Blair Tickner, who took 4/23 in match 17, will be raring to go. Brett Randell and Jayden Lennox add variety to the attack, while Angus Schaw will also be crucial in controlling the middle overs. With a strong bowling unit and experienced batters, the Stags will look to head into the final with winning momentum.
Key Players:
Will Young, Dane Cleaver, Tom Bruce, Blair Tickner
Predicted Playing XI:
Will Young, Jack Boyle, Dane Cleaver (wk), Curtis Heaphy, Tom Bruce (c), William Clark, Angus Schaw, Brett Randell, Blair Tickner, Jayden Lennox, Toby Findlay
Auckland Aces Preview
Auckland Aces were in prime position to enter the top three with back-to-back wins against Wellington Firebirds and Otago Volts. However, their momentum was halted with a six-wicket loss to Wellington, leaving them with no choice but to win this game to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Despite solid starts, none of their top five batters managed to convert their innings into a big score in their last match. Bevon Jacobs was the top scorer with 37 runs, while captain Sean Solia and Lachlan Stackpole also made useful contributions. However, the Aces will need one of their key batters to step up and produce a match-winning performance if they are to challenge the Stags.
On the bowling front, 21-year-old pacer Angus Olliver has been a revelation this season. He was the standout performer in the last game, picking up 3/28, and has consistently troubled opposition batters. Adithya Ashok has also been effective, and the duo will be instrumental in keeping the Stags’ powerful batting lineup under control.
With everything on the line, Auckland Aces must bring their best performance to avoid elimination.
Key Players:
Sean Solia, Bevon Jacobs, Angus Olliver, Adithya Ashok
Predicted Playing XI:
Sean Solia (c), Simon Keene, Lachlan Stackpole, Bevon Jacobs, William O’Donnell, Cam Fletcher (wk), Jock McKenzie, Riley Mudford, Danru Ferns, Angus Olliver, Adithya Ashok
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Tom Bruce |
| Vice-Captain | Bevon Jacobs |
| Batsmen | Will Young, Sean Solia, Curtis Heaphy |
| All-rounders | Dane Cleaver, Lachlan Stackpole |
| Wicketkeeper | Cam Fletcher |
| Bowlers | Blair Tickner, Angus Olliver, Adithya Ashok, Brett Randell |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
McLean Park in Napier is widely regarded as one of the best batting surfaces in New Zealand. The ball comes onto the bat nicely, offering value for stroke play, while pacers might extract some movement early on. However, spinners could play a crucial role as the game progresses. A score of 180-200 is expected to be par on this wicket.
Weather Conditions
Napier is set for a warm and clear day, with temperatures around 28°C at the start of play. Some humidity could develop in the evening, potentially bringing a short shower during the second innings. However, a full game is expected without significant weather interruptions.
Toss Prediction
Given the nature of the pitch, both captains would prefer to bat first, take advantage of the favorable batting conditions, and put scoreboard pressure on the opposition.
Winning Prediction
Auckland Aces have fought hard to keep their playoff hopes alive, and Angus Olliver has been a standout performer. However, Central Stags have been the superior side throughout the season and have a fresh bowling attack that could exploit the Aces’ batting inconsistencies. With experience and momentum on their side, the Stags are likely to come out on top.
Prediction: Central Stags to win.
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