Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces taking place? Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces will take place on Friday 24th December, 2021 at 01:40 (UK)
Where is Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces taking place? Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces will take place at Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington
What is the expected weather for Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces? 19c with bright sunshine and a moderate breeze
Where can I get tickets for Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces? Click here to buy tickets for Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces
What TV channel is Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces on in the UK? Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aceswill be televised live on BT Sport
Where can I stream Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces? BT Sport subscribers can stream Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces live on the BT Sport Player & app
THE TEAM NEWS
WELLINGTON FIREBIRDS
- Wellington Firebirds fell to a second straight defeat in this season’s Super Smash last time out, losing by six wickets to Canterbury Kings after their total of 151/9 was chased down comfortably at the Basin Reserve.
- The Firebirds are still not at full strength, with key batter Devon Conway having not featured so far across the competition due to a broken hand, which isn’t expected to have recovered in time for him to play here.
AUCKLAND ACES
- A huge improvement is needed from Auckland Aces if they are to record their first Super Smash victory of the campaign having been bowled out for just 92 against Northern Brave this past Monday, ultimately losing by six wickets.
- The batting has hugely disappointed, with far too much reliance on opener Martin Guptill, whilst the class of fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who even top scored with the bat against the Brave, will no doubt prove a crucial weapon for Wellington again in this match.
THE PREDICTION
Confidence is expected to be low in both camps here, but for Auckland Aces in particular it has been a nightmare start to the Super Smash. They have been bowled out in each their two matches so far, ultimately losing both and their middle order in particular needs to contribute more across their innings whether they be setting or chasing a target here. The Firebirds have not fared much better recently, however their does appear to be more grit down their batting order and more firepower compared to that of Auckland Aces. The likes of Troy Johnson and Logan van Beek provide strength-in-depth which could prove decisive in the latter overs of the Wellington innings, the sort of depth that the Aces don’t have. With that in mind, Wellington Firebirds are to be favoured in this one.
