Northern Brave and Canterbury will face off in the Eliminator [Source: @CanterburyCrick/X.com]
The Eliminator match of Super Smash 2024-25 is scheduled for February 1 and the teams that are going to face each other are Northern Brave and Canterbury Kings. The match is staged at the iconic Basin Reserve in Wellington and will commence at 8:55 AM IST.
Canterbury Kings
The Canterbury Kings have had a mixed season winning 4 out of 10 matches. However, they have been lucky enough with a net run rate of +0.280 to reach the Eliminator as they are third on the table. With a balanced squad boasting potential in both the batting and bowling departments, the Canterbury Kings will try to give it their all to book a spot in the finale.
Northern Brave
Northern Brave will face Canterbury in the crucial Eliminator match, aiming for a spot in the final after an inconsistent league stage. With four wins, three losses, and three abandoned matches, their campaign has been a mix of highs and lows.
Having lost to Canterbury twice, including a 56-run defeat, Northern Districts must step up in both batting and bowling to turn the tide. With a place in the final at stake, this match offers Northern Brave a golden opportunity for redemption and a shot at the title.
CTB vs ND: Head-to-head In Super Smash
Matches | Northern Brave Won | Canterbury Won | N/R |
---|---|---|---|
16 | 8 | 8 | 0 |
How will the Basin Reserve pitch behave?
The Basin Reserve in Wellington is famous for its lush green pitches, which are great for fast bowlers at the start of a match. But as the game goes on, that green starts to fade, making it a lot easier for the batters to score runs.
Wind can also have a big impact on how things play out on the field. Typically, if a captain wins the toss, they might choose to bat first, especially considering that teams chasing often struggle to secure a win on this ground.
Players to watch out for in CTB vs ND Eliminator
Canterbury Kings
Matthew Boyle
Matthew Boyle has been Canterbury’s standout batter, amassing 327 runs at an impressive strike rate of 154.25 in the Super Smash. His recent form includes a crucial 66 off 42 balls against Northern Brave, making him a key asset at the top. His ability to provide aggressive starts will be vital in the high-pressure Eliminator match.
Cole McConchie
Cole McConchie brings an all-round impact, contributing with both bat and ball for Canterbury. His recent four-wicket haul (4-31) against Northern Brave highlights his match-winning ability with the ball. Additionally, his experience and steady middle-order batting can anchor Canterbury’s innings in crunch situations.
Zak Foulkes
Zak Foulkes has been Canterbury’s most reliable bowler, picking up 13 wickets at an economy of just over 8. His ability to strike early and contain runs makes him a crucial weapon against Northern Brave’s top order. With consistent performances, including a three-wicket haul against Auckland, he can turn the game in Canterbury’s favor.
Northern Brave
Katene Clarke
Katene Clarke is in solid batting form with 282 runs at a strike rate of 133.65, including a brilliant 106 off 65 balls against Otago. His consistency at the top of the order provides stability for Northern Brave. Clarke’s aggressive stroke play in the powerplay will be crucial for setting a competitive total in the Eliminator match.
Kristian Clarke
Kristian Clarke has been a key performer with the ball, taking 11 wickets at an economy rate of 9.78 in the Super Smash. His ability to take crucial wickets, including two wickets for 20 runs in the last match, makes him a threat in the Eliminator. Clarke's discipline and wicket-taking ability will be vital to disrupt Canterbury’s batting lineup.
Joe Carter
Joe Carter’s explosive batting, with 199 runs at a strike rate of 143.17, is a game-changer for Northern Brave. His match-winning knock of 83 off 49 balls against Otago demonstrated his ability to accelerate and finish innings. Carter’s presence in the middle order will be key for Northern Brave to post or chase a challenging total in the Eliminator.
Today's Match Prediction: CTB vs ND Eliminator
Predicted Top Performers
Canterbury Kings: Matthew Boyle, Cole McConchie, Zak Foulkes
Northern Brave: Katene Clarke, Joe Carter, Kristian Clarke
CTB vs ND Eliminator: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 140-150
Predicted second innings score: 120-130
Predicted Result: The team choosing to bat first will likely have the upper hand in this match.