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The 18th match of the Super Smash 2024-25 pits top-of-the-table Otago Volts against a struggling Wellington Firebirds at the University Oval, Dunedin. The Volts, with four wins in six matches, are in excellent form and aim to maintain their lead. Conversely, Wellington Firebirds are desperate to break their two-match losing streak and revive their campaign. Having met earlier this season, the Volts emerged victorious by 15 runs. This fixture promises a fierce contest between two motivated sides.
Match Details
| Match | Otago Volts vs. Wellington Firebirds |
|---|---|
| Date | January 20, 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | University Oval, Dunedin |
| Weather | Cloudy, no significant rain, mild breeze |
Team Previews
Otago Volts
The Volts are in commanding form, sitting at the top of the table. Their batting lineup has been the cornerstone of their success, with Leo Carter and Max Chu leading the charge. Carter’s explosive 54 off 35 balls and Chu’s brisk 44 off 27 in the last match underline their ability to deliver under pressure. Contributions from skipper Luke Georgeson and Llew Johnson add depth to their batting.
On the bowling front, Jacob Duffy and Andrew Hazeldine have been consistent performers, with the support of Ben Lockrose and Matthew Bacon. However, the bowlers need to tighten their economy to defend competitive totals effectively.
Key Players: Leo Carter, Max Chu, Jacob Duffy
Predicted Playing XI:
Luke Georgeson (c), Dale Phillips, Jamal Todd, Llew Johnson, Max Chu (wk), Leo Carter, Glenn Phillips, Ben Lockrose, Andrew Hazeldine, Matthew Bacon, Jacob Duffy
Wellington Firebirds
Wellington Firebirds have struggled in recent matches, with their batting lineup overly reliant on Michael Bracewell. His 61 off 31 balls in the previous game was a standout effort, but support from others has been inconsistent. Contributions from Jesse Tashkoff and Muhammad Abbas are encouraging, but more is needed from captain Nick Kelly and Tom Blundell.
The bowling unit, led by Peter Younghusband and James Hartshorn, has delivered in patches. Younghusband’s 2/22 and Hartshorn’s 2/27 in the last game were highlights, but the team requires a collective effort to restrict the Volts’ strong batting lineup.
Key Players: Michael Bracewell, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn
Predicted Playing XI:
Tom Blundell (wk), Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly (c), Troy Johnson, Muhammad Abbas, Michael Bracewell, Jesse Tashkoff, Logan van Beek, Peter Younghusband, Ben Sears, James Hartshorn
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Leo Carter (C) | Otago Volts | Batter |
| Michael Bracewell (VC) | Wellington Firebirds | All-rounder |
| Max Chu | Otago Volts | Wicketkeeper |
| Luke Georgeson | Otago Volts | All-rounder |
| Jacob Duffy | Otago Volts | Bowler |
| Peter Younghusband | Wellington Firebirds | Bowler |
| Jesse Tashkoff | Wellington Firebirds | All-rounder |
| Glenn Phillips | Otago Volts | Batter |
| Ben Lockrose | Otago Volts | Bowler |
| James Hartshorn | Wellington Firebirds | Bowler |
| Muhammad Abbas | Wellington Firebirds | All-rounder |
Pitch Report
The University Oval surface in Dunedin typically favors batters, with even bounce and minimal lateral movement. Spinners can extract turn, especially in the second innings, while pacers will need to rely on variations. A par score here is around 165, and teams winning the toss will likely opt to bat first to capitalize on favorable conditions early on.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 165
- Toss Prediction: Bat first
Winning Prediction
Otago Volts enter this fixture as clear favorites, given their consistency with both bat and ball. Wellington Firebirds, while capable of brilliance through players like Michael Bracewell, lack the depth to consistently challenge top teams. Expect the Volts to exploit their home advantage and secure a hard-fought win.
Prediction: Otago Volts to win.
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