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The Super Smash 2024-25 continues to captivate cricket fans as the Wellington Firebirds take on the Central Stags in match 10 at Basin Reserve, Wellington, on 9th January 2024, at 8:55 AM IST. This premier domestic T20 competition in New Zealand features six teams battling in a round-robin format followed by playoffs.
The Central Stags, with two commanding victories in three games, are sitting second on the points table. In contrast, the Wellington Firebirds have won one and lost one, positioning them in the middle of the pack. The Firebirds handed the Stags their only defeat of the season, but the Stags, with their current form and balance, will be looking for revenge.
Match Details
| Fixture | Wellington Firebirds vs Central Stags |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, January 9th, 2024 |
| Time | 8:55 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington, New Zealand |
Teams Preview
Wellington Firebirds Preview
The Firebirds began their campaign with a thrilling victory over the Stags, defending 190 and securing an 11-run win. However, they faltered against Northern Brave, failing to defend a total of 160.
Tim Robinson has been the standout batter, smashing 57 off 36 balls in the win against the Stags. The top order, however, remains a concern, with skipper Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas struggling for consistency. All-rounder Gareth Severin and Nick Greenwood showed grit with the bat in the middle order during their opening game.
The Firebirds’ bowling unit has been their strength. James Hartshorn was phenomenal against the Stags, claiming five wickets for 24 runs. Logan van Beek, a reliable bowler, picked up three wickets in the same match and has been a consistent performer in T20 cricket. However, the bowlers will need to deliver collectively to contain the Stags’ explosive lineup.
Key Players: Tim Robinson, Logan van Beek, James Hartshorn
Wellington Firebirds Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Jesse Tashkoff | Batter |
| Tom Blundell (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Nick Kelly (c) | Batter |
| Troy Johnson | Batter |
| Gareth Severin | All-rounder |
| Tim Robinson | Batter |
| Peter Younghusband | Bowler |
| James Hartshorn | Bowler |
| Nick Greenwood | Bowler |
| Logan van Beek | Bowler |
| Muhammad Abbas | All-rounder |
Central Stags Preview
The Stags have been dominant in two of their three games. Despite losing to the Firebirds in their second game, they bounced back emphatically with a 64-run victory over Northern Brave in their last outing.
Captain Tom Bruce has been sensational, scoring a blistering 64 off 31 balls against Northern Brave, supported by consistent contributions from Dane Cleaver and Josh Clarkson. The Stags’ middle order has shown resilience, while opener Jack Boyle impressed with 66 in the earlier encounter against the Firebirds.
On the bowling front, Jayden Lennox stole the show against Northern Brave with figures of 3/14, while Blair Tickner and Brett Randell have provided crucial breakthroughs. The balanced bowling attack, featuring both pace and spin options, makes the Stags a formidable unit.
Key Players: Tom Bruce, Jayden Lennox, Blair Tickner
Central Stags Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Curtis Heaphy (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Jack Boyle | Batter |
| Dane Cleaver | Batter |
| Tom Bruce (c) | Batter |
| Josh Clarkson | Batter |
| William Clark | Batter |
| Angus Schaw | All-rounder |
| Joey Field | Bowler |
| Brett Randell | Bowler |
| Blair Tickner | Bowler |
| Jayden Lennox | Bowler |
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Tom Bruce |
| Vice-Captain | Tim Robinson |
| Batsmen | Jack Boyle, Dane Cleaver, Nick Kelly |
| All-rounders | Josh Clarkson, Gareth Severin, Muhammad Abbas |
| Wicketkeeper | Curtis Heaphy |
| Bowlers | Logan van Beek, Jayden Lennox, James Hartshorn, Blair Tickner |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve is a paradise for seamers, offering pace and bounce early on. The surface settles as the game progresses, providing opportunities for batters to score freely. Spinners might come into play in the latter stages of the innings.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 170
- Batting Advantage: Slight edge to chasing teams due to improving conditions.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
Both captains might opt to field first, given the venue’s history of favoring teams that chase.
Weather Conditions
The weather in Wellington is expected to be partly sunny and breezy, with temperatures hovering between 13°C and 19°C. Minimal chances of rain ensure a full game of cricket.
Winning Prediction
While Wellington Firebirds clinched a victory in their previous meeting, the Central Stags have been the more balanced and consistent side in this season. With a solid batting order and a well-rounded bowling attack, the Stags will be keen to avenge their earlier loss.
Prediction: Central Stags to win!
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