Wellington Firebirds to face Otago Volts in Super Smash 2024-25 [Source: @SuperSmashNZ/X.com]
Wellington Firebirds will be up against Otago Volts in the 14th fixture of the Super Smash 2024-25 season. Basin Reserve will host the clash on January 14 starting from 8.55 AM IST.
Wellington Firebirds
The Wellington Firebirds will look to build on their strong performances as they rely on a solid batting lineup featuring Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly, Mohammad Abbas, Tom Blundell, Jesse Tashkoff, and Logan van Beek. Tim Robinson was the standout performer in their previous match, smashing 89 runs off 57 balls, including nine fours and three sixes.
Captain Nick Kelly contributed 32 runs off 22 balls, while wicket-keeper Tom Blundell added 29 runs off 26 deliveries. In the bowling department, the Firebirds boast a balanced attack led by James Hartshorn. Ben Sears was impressive in the last game, picking up 2 for 38 in his four-over spell.
Otago Volts
The Otago Volts are riding on the form of their dependable batting unit comprising Dale Phillips, Leo Carter, Dean Foxcroft, Jamal Todd, and Llew Johnson. Jamal Todd was the top-scorer in the previous game with an unbeaten 51 off 28 balls. Dale Phillips delivered fireworks with 35 runs off just 11 balls, while Dean Foxcroft chipped in with an unbeaten 23 runs.
The bowling attack, led by Luke Georgeson, remains the backbone of the team. Georgeson was the pick of the bowlers in their last outing, taking 2 for 24 in his four overs, with solid support from Mason Clarke, Matthew Bacon, Andrew Hazeldine, and Ben Lockrose, who each picked up a wicket.
WF vs OV: Head-to-head
Matches Played | Wellington Won | Otago Won | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
34 | 17 | 10 | 4 |
How will the Basin Reserve pitch behave?
The Basin Reserve in Wellington is set to host the 14th match of the Super Smash 2024-25 between the Wellington Firebirds and Otago Volts. Historically, this venue has been a paradise for batters, with high-scoring games being a regular feature.
Given the conditions and past trends, both teams will likely opt to bowl first if they win the toss. The chasing side has enjoyed success at this venue, with the previous match also being won by the team batting second. Bowlers in the first innings must stay sharp to contain the opposition and set up a manageable target.
Players to watch out for in WF vs OV Match 14
Wellington Firebirds
Tim Robinson: Robinson delivered an exceptional knock in the last game with 89 runs, anchoring the innings with a high-scoring effort that included exquisite boundary placement.
Nick Kelly: The captain chipped in with a brisk contribution of 32 off 22 balls in the last game, building momentum during the middle overs. His stability will be key for Wellington in the next game.
Ben Sears: Sears was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two key wickets despite a slightly high economy in the previous clash. He can spearhead the bowling attack and chip regular breakthroughs.
Logan van Beek: Logan van Beek, the Dutch cricketer, also contributed with a wicket in the last game. With a low economy, he can add crucial control during the innings.
Otago Volts
Jamal Todd: Todd was the standout performer with the bat in the last game, anchoring the innings with an explosive half-century. His aggressive approach kept the scoreboard ticking and set the tone for the innings.
Dale Phillips: Phillips delivered a blistering cameo of 35 runs, smashing boundaries at will. His lightning-quick innings provided the Volts with crucial momentum during the middle overs.
Luke Georgeson: Georgeson led the bowling attack with precision in the previous contest, delivering a tight spell and picking up two crucial wickets. His tight economy will be key for Otago in the next game.
Mason Clarke: Clarke provided control with the ball, maintained pressure, and claimed an important wicket. His spell will be worth a watch.
Today’s Match Prediction: WF vs OV Match 13
Predicted top performers
Wellington: Tim Robinson, Logan van Beek, Ben Sears
Otago: Jamal Todd, Dale Phillips, Mason Clarke
WF vs OV Match 14 Predicted Score
Predicted First Innings Score: 140-160 runs
Predicted Second Innings Score: 160-170 runs