Match 4 of the Super Smash 2025-26 brings a classic rivalry between two of the most successful teams in the tournament. The Wellington Firebirds will face the Auckland Aces at the iconic Basin Reserve.
This will be the second match of the season for both teams. Auckland Aces were unlucky in their opening game as rain washed out the match after they posted a big total. Wellington Firebirds, on the other hand, had a poor start and will be under pressure to bounce back quickly.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Super Smash 2025-26 |
| Match | Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces (Match 4) |
| Date | Monday, 29 December 2025 |
| Time | 8:55 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
Match Preview
Wellington Firebirds – Team Form
Wellington Firebirds did not have the start they wanted. They lost their opening match by 46 runs against Central Districts. While Tom Blundell scored a fighting half-century and Ben Sears bowled well, the rest of the batting unit struggled badly.
The Firebirds look a bit fragile with the bat, and they will need big contributions from their top order to compete against a strong Auckland side.
Auckland Aces – Team Form
Auckland Aces started the season well but were unlucky due to rain. Batting first, they scored 201 runs, with Bevon Jacobs scoring a solid fifty and good support from Dale Phillips and Lachlan Stackpole.
The Aces look more settled both in batting and bowling, and they will be confident heading into this clash.
Head-to-Head Record
| Team | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Wellington Firebirds | 15 |
| Auckland Aces | 21 |
| No Result | 0 |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Last 5 Results |
|---|---|
| Wellington Firebirds | L, W, W, NR, L |
| Auckland Aces | W, W, L, L, NR |
Pitch & Weather Report – Basin Reserve
Weather Update
- Temperature: 19–21°C
- Humidity: 50–60%
- Rain Chance: Around 5% (mostly clear)
Pitch Report
- Batting-friendly surface
- Spinners get help as the match progresses
- Chasing teams enjoy good success here
Chasing Record
| Record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Winning Percentage | 66% |
| Advantage | Chasing teams |
Basin Reserve – T20 Ground Stats
| Stat | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 6 |
| Batting First Wins | 2 |
| Batting Second Wins | 4 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 144 |
| Highest Score | 177/3 |
| Lowest Score | 102 all out |
Predicted Playing XI
Wellington Firebirds
- Tim Robinson
- Tom Blundell (WK)
- Nick Kelly (C)
- Muhammad Abbas
- Jesse Tashkoff
- Gareth Severin
- Logan van Beek
- Peter Younghusband
- Ben Sears
- Michael Snedden
- Yahya Zeb
Auckland Aces
- Dale Phillips
- Simon Keene
- Martin Guptill
- Bevon Jacobs
- Lachlan Stackpole
- Cam Fletcher (WK)
- Sean Solia (C)
- Ryan Harrison
- Adithya Ashok
- Angus Olliver
- Rohit Gulati
Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Tips
Small League – Safe Picks
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Bevon Jacobs
- Tim Robinson
- Martin Guptill
- Tom Blundell
These players are consistent and safer options for small leagues.
Grand League – Differential Picks
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Sean Solia
- Muhammad Abbas
- Dale Phillips
- Logan van Beek
These picks can provide an edge in grand leagues.
Match Prediction – Who Will Win?
Auckland Aces look more balanced and settled compared to Wellington Firebirds. Their batting depth and variety in bowling give them a clear edge.
Wellington Firebirds are still searching for stability, especially in their batting lineup, which could hurt them again.
Predicted Winner: Auckland Aces
Injury Update
| Team | Injury Status |
|---|---|
| Auckland Aces | No injury concerns |
| Wellington Firebirds | No injury concerns |
Disclaimer
Fantasy sports involve financial risk and can be addictive. Please play responsibly and play only for entertainment.
