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The Women’s Super Smash 2024-25 continues with its third game as the Otago Sparks take on the Auckland Hearts at Molyneux Park, Alexandra. Both teams are looking to secure their first win of the tournament. The Sparks suffered a disappointing loss to the Canterbury Magicians in their opener, while the Hearts had their first game washed out due to rain. With the Sparks having won four of their last five encounters against the Hearts, the stage is set for an exciting contest.
Match Details
| Fixture | Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts |
|---|---|
| Date | December 24, 2024 |
| Time | 3:30 PM NZDT |
| Venue | Molyneux Park, Alexandra |
Teams Preview
Otago Sparks Preview
The Otago Sparks will aim to bounce back after a poor performance in their opening match against the Canterbury Magicians. Their chase of a modest target fell short, exposing their fragile middle order. Captain Hayley Jensen will demand a better all-around performance from her team.
The experienced Suzie Bates will lead the batting effort, having scored a solid half-century in the previous game. She will look for support from Bella James at the top and contributions from Felicity Leydon-Davis and Caitlin Blakely in the middle order. The Sparks’ lower middle order, featuring Olivia Gain and skipper Jensen, will play a crucial role in finishing the innings.
On the bowling front, the Sparks impressed in their last outing. Emma Black, Kirstie Gordon, and Eden Carson picked up two wickets each and will look to replicate their form.
Otago Sparks Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Suzie Bates | Batter |
| Bella James | Batter |
| Felicity Leydon-Davis | Batter |
| Caitlin Blakely | Batter |
| Polly Inglis (wk) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Olivia Gain | All-rounder |
| Hayley Jensen (c) | All-rounder |
| Eden Carson | Bowler |
| Kirstie Gordon | Bowler |
| Emma Black | Bowler |
| Molly Loe | Bowler |
Auckland Hearts Preview
After a disappointing 2023-24 season, the Auckland Hearts will look to make an early statement in this campaign. Skipper Maddy Green will play a pivotal role in reviving the team’s fortunes.
The batting lineup boasts experienced players like Isabella Gaze, Saachi Shahri, and Maddy Green, who will anchor the innings. Middle-order batters Prue Catton and Brooke Halliday bring additional firepower, while Bella Armstrong and Lauren Down will look to provide late-order fireworks.
Bowling remains a concern for the Hearts. They rely heavily on Molly Penfold, who has the experience to lead the attack. Spinners Fran Jonas and Bree Illing will aim to provide breakthroughs during the middle overs.
Auckland Hearts Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Maddy Green (c) | Batter |
| Isabella Gaze (wk) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Saachi Shahri | Batter |
| Prue Catton | Batter |
| Brooke Halliday | All-rounder |
| Josie Penfold | Bowler |
| Molly Penfold | Bowler |
| Lauren Down | Batter |
| Fran Jonas | Bowler |
| Bree Illing | Bowler |
| Bella Armstrong | All-rounder |
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Suzie Bates |
| Vice-Captain | Maddy Green |
| Batsmen | Bella James, Prue Catton, Saachi Shahri |
| All-rounders | Hayley Jensen, Brooke Halliday, Felicity Leydon-Davis |
| Wicketkeeper | Polly Inglis |
| Bowlers | Emma Black, Fran Jonas, Kirstie Gordon |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report:
The pitch at Molyneux Park, Alexandra, offers assistance to bowlers, especially pacers, with early movement off the surface. Batters need to settle in before playing their shots, and spinners may find it challenging to grip the ball. A first-innings score of 150+ will be highly competitive on this wicket.
Weather Conditions:
The weather forecast for Alexandra is clear, with no chance of rain. Temperatures will hover between 11°C and 17°C, providing ideal conditions for cricket.
Toss: To Bowl
Teams bowling first have enjoyed success at this venue due to the assistance offered to bowlers early on. Both captains are likely to opt to chase.
Winning Prediction
The Otago Sparks boast a strong batting lineup and a disciplined bowling attack, giving them an edge over the Auckland Hearts, who are yet to find their rhythm. The Sparks’ superior head-to-head record further solidifies their position as favorites.
Prediction: Otago Sparks to win!
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