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We are entering a crucial phase of Super Smash 2024-25, where teams are aiming to climb up the points table and solidify their playoff chances.
The Wellington Firebirds, currently gaining momentum after a recent win, will play their third home game of the season at Basin Reserve, Wellington. Meanwhile, the Auckland Aces are struggling with three consecutive losses and need a turnaround to stay in contention.
There have been inconsistencies in Wellington’s batting lineup, but their performances have been better than Auckland’s. Wellington have scored 180+ twice in their last three games, whereas Auckland have failed to cross 140 in two of their last three outings.
With Tim Robinson in superb form for Wellington and Bevon Jacobs showing promise for Auckland, this match is expected to be a thrilling battle.
Match Details
| Fixture | Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces |
|---|---|
| Date | January 17, 2024 |
| Time | 8:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
Teams Preview
Wellington Firebirds Preview
The Wellington Firebirds are coming off a solid win against the Central Stags, where their batting unit fired on all cylinders. Tim Robinson (76 off 58) was once again the key performer at the top, supported by Nick Kelly (57 off 32) and a late 20-run cameo from Michael Bracewell.
Bowling has been decent overall, but their biggest setback came when they failed to defend 192 runs in an earlier home game. Ben Sears (4/29) and Logan van Beek (2/18) were brilliant in the last match, while Michael Bracewell and Peter Younghusband will be expected to deliver breakthroughs in the middle overs.
With a well-balanced squad, home advantage, and recent form in their favor, the Firebirds will be confident heading into this game.
Key Players: Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly, Ben Sears
Predicted Playing XI:
Tim Robinson, Tom Blundell (wk), Nick Kelly (c), Troy Johnson, Muhammad Abbas, Michael Bracewell, Jesse Tashkoff, Logan van Beek, Peter Younghusband, Ben Sears, James Hartshorn
Auckland Aces Preview
The Auckland Aces are struggling with just one win this season. Their batting has been highly inconsistent, with their only notable score being 187 in a losing effort against Northern Knights.
Bevon Jacobs (90 off 56) and William O’Donnell (32 off 32) have been the only batters showing resilience, while skipper Sean Solia needs to step up at No. 3 after a poor run of form.
Bowling has been better than batting, but still inconsistent. Danru Ferns and Simon Keene will be their main pace weapons, while Adithya Ashok and Angus Olliver are expected to provide breakthroughs.
With their batting out of form, Auckland will need a collective effort to challenge the in-form Firebirds.
Key Players: Bevon Jacobs, William O’Donnell, Danru Ferns
Predicted Playing XI:
William O Donnell, Simon Keene, Sean Solia (c), Cam Fletcher (wk), Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Jock McKenzie, Riley Mudford, Adithya Ashok, Angus Olliver, Danru Ferns
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Tim Robinson |
| Vice-Captain | Bevon Jacobs |
| Batsmen | Nick Kelly, William O’Donnell, Tom Blundell |
| All-rounders | Michael Bracewell, Sean Solia, Logan van Beek |
| Wicketkeeper | Cam Fletcher |
| Bowlers | Ben Sears, Peter Younghusband, Danru Ferns, Adithya Ashok |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve, Wellington, has been a balanced wicket, offering something for both batters and bowlers. However, bowlers have enjoyed the upper hand in recent games.
- Average 1st innings score: 138 runs
- Highest successful chase: 196 runs
A 170+ total will be a highly competitive score, and bowlers will play a key role in deciding the game’s outcome.
Weather Conditions
The weather in Wellington will be partly cloudy with no rain expected. The temperature will hover around 19°C, and conditions will favor both seamers and spinners.
Toss Prediction
- Teams bowling first have won 8 of the last 10 matches at this venue.
- Captains are likely to opt for fielding first to restrict the opposition and chase comfortably.
Winning Prediction
Auckland Aces are struggling to find any consistency, especially with their batting unit failing to fire. Wellington Firebirds have the home advantage, better form, and a solid squad that looks far more balanced.
While Auckland’s bowlers could pose a challenge, the Firebirds are clear favorites heading into this match.
Prediction: Wellington Firebirds to win
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