Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts Prediction: Who Will Win OS vs AH 3rd ODI Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Match?
The 3rd ODI of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025/26 brings an exciting clash between defending champions Otago Sparks and last year’s runners-up Auckland Hearts. Fans eagerly await the most accurate Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts prediction, especially after their thrilling encounters last season. Otago showcased exceptional consistency throughout the previous campaign, winning nine out of ten league matches before defeating Auckland in the final. With that momentum, they enter this year’s competition as the team to beat. In contrast, Auckland Hearts will be determined to avenge their loss and begin the new season on a confident note, motivated to climb one position higher and claim the title.
The previous matchup between these two sides saw Otago Sparks defeat Auckland Hearts by four wickets, showcasing their superior composure under pressure. This makes the Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts prediction even more intriguing, as both squads are filled with match-winners capable of turning the game at any moment. Auckland rely heavily on their star batter Maddy Green, whose extraordinary 698-run season last year remains one of the finest in Hallyburton history. Alongside her, Izzy Gaze and Lauren Down bring stability to the batting order.
For Otago Sparks, Felicity Robertson and Polly Inglis remain cornerstone batters with strong averages and consistent scoring. Their bowling department, led by strike bowler Eden Carson, has proven experience and depth, further strengthening Otago’s confidence heading into the fixture. With the University of Otago Oval known for producing competitive surfaces where 265 is considered a challenging total, both teams will need to execute well in every phase.
As the champions and finalists of the previous season meet again, this fixture promises quality cricket, a disciplined contest between bat and ball, and a perfect opportunity for both teams to set early momentum. Below is the full preview including match details, squads, fantasy picks, pitch and weather reports, and final match prediction.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts, 3rd ODI |
| Tournament | Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025-26 |
| Date | Saturday, 15 November 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | University Of Otago Oval, Dunedin |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Team Preview
Otago Sparks Preview
Otago Sparks enter the new season as defending champions, having delivered an exceptional 2024/25 campaign with nine wins from ten league matches. Their consistency, depth, and ability to perform under pressure make them one of the favourites again this season. The Sparks boast a balanced squad with dependable batting and a disciplined bowling attack.
Felicity Robertson remains their premium batter. Her 398 runs at an average of 44.22 last season highlight her role as the backbone of the lineup. She plays with stability and smart rotation while being capable of accelerating when needed. Polly Inglis, who accumulated 340 runs at 42.50, provides additional reliability and has been a consistent performer at the top. Experienced players like Suzie Bates and Bella James offer control and adaptability, strengthening their middle order.
The strength of Otago lies equally in their bowling. Lead spinner Eden Carson was unstoppable last season, scalping 22 wickets in 11 matches. Her accuracy and attacking mindset make her one of the top bowlers in the tournament. With support from Anna Browning, Emma Black, and Chloe Deerness, the Sparks possess a multi-dimensional attack capable of defending moderate totals or restricting opponents early.
Auckland Hearts Preview
Auckland Hearts come into the new season motivated to go one step further after finishing runners-up last year. They impressed throughout the campaign and have retained most of their core players. Their batting is led by the prolific Maddy Green, who smashed 698 runs in 11 innings at an average of 70, including three centuries and three fifties. She is the biggest asset in their setup. Lauren Down’s 370 runs add depth to the lineup, ensuring stability in the middle order.
Izzy Gaze and Josie Penfold bring reliable support with their ability to rotate strike and build partnerships. Auckland’s bowling attack is equally capable, led by Amie Hucker, who picked up 16 wickets. Molly Penfold and Fran Jonas add variety, while Anika Todd and Josie Penfold round out a strong attack. Auckland have the skill, but overcoming Otago’s form remains their biggest challenge.
Team Squads
Otago Sparks Squad
Suzie Bates, Felicity Robertson, Bella James, Polly Inglis (wk), Caitlin Blakely, Poppy-Jay Watkins, Anna Browning, Eden Carson, Emma Black, Chloe Deerness, Harriett Cuttance.
Auckland Hearts Squad
Izzy Gaze (wk), Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Lauren Down, Bella Armstrong, Josie Penfold, Anika Todd, Amie Hucker, Fran Jonas, Prue Catton, Molly Penfold.
Probable Playing XI
Otago Sparks
- Suzie Bates
- Felicity Robertson
- Bella James
- Polly Inglis (wk)
- Caitlin Blakely
- Poppy-Jay Watkins
- Anna Browning
- Eden Carson
- Emma Black
- Chloe Deerness
- Harriett Cuttance
Auckland Hearts
- Izzy Gaze (wk)
- Maddy Green
- Brooke Halliday
- Lauren Down
- Bella Armstrong
- Josie Penfold
- Anika Todd
- Amie Hucker
- Fran Jonas
- Prue Catton
- Molly Penfold
Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts Today’s Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Polly Inglis |
| BAT | Felicity Robertson, Maddy Green, Lauren Down |
| AR | Suzie Bates (C), Bella Armstrong, Poppy-Jay Watkins |
| BOWL | Eden Carson (VC), Amie Hucker, Emma Black, Fran Jonas |
This fantasy lineup is crafted to include dependable run scorers, high-impact all-rounders, and proven wicket-takers. Suzie Bates is the ideal choice for captain as she contributes in all departments—top-order runs, leadership responsibility, and occasional breakthroughs with the ball. Her experience ensures consistency. Eden Carson is selected as vice-captain due to her wicket-taking ability; she was the leading bowler last season and remains a threat with her disciplined spells.
Polly Inglis is chosen as the wicketkeeper due to her strong batting contributions and consistent involvement behind the stumps. Maddy Green and Felicity Robertson are automatic picks due to their phenomenal previous-season records, offering stability and potential big scores. Lauren Down adds further depth to the batting lineup.
Among all-rounders, Bella Armstrong and Poppy-Jay Watkins bring balance with their ability to contribute at crucial moments. For bowling, the trio of Carson, Amie Hucker, and Emma Black forms a powerful attack capable of earning significant fantasy points through wickets and economy bonuses. Fran Jonas provides left-arm spin variation, making the team well-rounded and competitive.
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
Captain Picks
- Suzie Bates
- Maddy Green
Vice-Captain Picks
- Eden Carson
- Felicity Robertson
Players to Avoid
- Prue Catton – low impact in previous matches.
- Harriett Cuttance – limited consistency and fantasy value.
Favourite Team for Today
Otago Sparks enter this contest as the clear favourites due to their dominant performances last season and their superior depth in both batting and bowling. As defending champions, they possess confidence and composure, particularly evident in their recent four-wicket win over Auckland. Their core players—Robertson, Inglis, Bates, and Carson—are all in excellent rhythm and capable of influencing key moments. Otago’s bowling attack also offers greater variety and control, enabling them to defend totals or restrict opposition with ease.
Auckland Hearts are undoubtedly strong, but they rely heavily on Maddy Green and Lauren Down for major scoring. While their bowling is competitive, their inconsistency in tight matches has been a concern. Given Otago’s strong record, balanced squad, and familiarity with home conditions in Dunedin, they hold a substantial edge heading into this 3rd ODI.
Pitch Report
The University of Otago Oval offers a balanced surface with early movement for pacers and true bounce for batters. A competitive score around 265 is expected. The pitch eases out after the initial overs, making stroke play easier. Spinners may gain some grip later in the game.
Weather Report
Dunedin is expected to be cool with partial sunshine. With minimal rain forecast, a full match is likely. Temperatures will range between 12–18°C with light breeze conditions.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: FanCode
- Telecast: Not available on TV in India
Score Prediction
- If Otago Sparks Bat First: 239+
- If Auckland Hearts Bat First: 218+
Winning Chances
- Otago Sparks: 65%
- Auckland Hearts: 35%
Toss Prediction
Auckland Hearts to win the toss
Match Prediction
Winner: Otago Sparks Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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