Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds Prediction: Who Will Win AA vs WF 8th T20 Super Smash Match?
The Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds prediction for the 8th T20 of the Super Smash 2025–26 strongly leans towards the in-form Aces, who have started the season in commanding fashion. This contest will be played on Friday, 2nd January 2026 at Eden Park Outer Oval, Auckland. The surface here traditionally offers a balanced contest, but teams with strong top orders and disciplined bowling units usually hold the advantage.
The Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds prediction becomes even more interesting when recent form is considered. Auckland are yet to lose a match this season and currently sit at the top of the table with one win and one no-result. Their batting has been explosive, crossing 200 in one match and successfully chasing 187 in another, which underlines their depth and adaptability. Wellington Firebirds, meanwhile, have struggled for consistency, though their recent win over Northern Knights will boost confidence heading into this clash.
Historically, Auckland Aces have enjoyed an upper hand over Wellington Firebirds, especially at Eden Park. The conditions here suit teams that bat with intent in the powerplay and back their spinners and change-up bowlers in the middle overs. With Auckland boasting a more settled XI and better momentum, the Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds prediction clearly favors the hosts, though Wellington’s individual match-winners ensure this is not a foregone conclusion.
Overall, given Auckland’s unbeaten run, superior balance, and head-to-head dominance, they enter this match as deserved favorites. The Firebirds will need a near-perfect performance to upset the table-toppers.
- Auckland Aces are unbeaten so far in Super Smash 2025–26
- Wellington Firebirds are coming off a confidence-boosting win
- Eden Park Outer Oval generally favors teams with strong top orders
- Auckland Aces hold a historical edge in head-to-head encounters
Match Details
| Match | Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds, 8th T20 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Super Smash 2025–26 |
| Date | Friday, 2nd January 2026 |
| Time | 8:55 AM IST |
| Venue | Eden Park Outer Oval, Auckland |
| Live Broadcast | Sony Sports Network |
| Live Streaming | SonyLiv, Fancode |
Auckland Aces Preview
Auckland Aces have been the standout side of the Super Smash 2025–26 so far, ticking all the right boxes with both bat and ball. They currently sit atop the points table, unbeaten after two outings, and have shown the ability to dominate games in different conditions.
Their batting unit has been particularly impressive. Bevon Jacobs has emerged as the leading run-scorer, delivering consecutive fifties (55 and 54) and showing maturity beyond his years. His ability to handle both pace and spin makes him a vital cog in the middle order. At the top, Dale Phillips has provided brisk starts, ensuring Auckland make full use of the powerplay overs. The presence of experienced campaigner Martin Guptill further strengthens the lineup, offering both stability and explosive potential.
The middle order, featuring players like Cam Fletcher and Lachlan Stackpole, adds depth and flexibility. Auckland’s ability to post 200+ totals or chase down stiff targets highlights their batting versatility. They do not rely on one individual, which makes them harder to contain.
Bowling has been equally effective. Harjot Johal has been Auckland’s standout performer, picking up three crucial wickets against Wellington earlier in the season and maintaining tight lines. His variations in the middle overs have proven difficult to score off. Support from Angus Olliver and Adithya Ashok ensures that Auckland can apply pressure throughout the innings.
Fielding is another strength. The Aces are sharp in the ring and athletic in the outfield, often converting half-chances into wickets. Overall, Auckland Aces look like a well-drilled unit with momentum firmly on their side, making them a formidable opponent at home.
Wellington Firebirds Preview
Wellington Firebirds have had a mixed start to their Super Smash 2025–26 campaign. After losing their opening two matches, they finally found form with a crucial win over Northern Knights, which should inject some belief into the squad ahead of this tough fixture.
The batting lineup revolves around skipper Nick Kelly, who played a captain’s knock of 95* off 58 balls in their last outing. His composure under pressure and ability to anchor innings make him Wellington’s most reliable batter. Tashkoff has also been a revelation, smashing 83 off just 30 balls earlier in the tournament, proving he can change the game in a matter of overs.
At the top, Tom Blundell brings experience and calmness, while Tim Robinson adds intent. However, Wellington’s inconsistency stems from their middle order, which has struggled to build partnerships. If they are to challenge Auckland, contributions from players like Muhammad Abbas and Gareth Severin will be crucial.
Bowling-wise, Wellington have shown improvement. Yahya Zeb impressed on debut with three wickets, while seasoned campaigner Logan van Beek continues to be a reliable option with both new ball and at the death. Despite this, the Firebirds have leaked runs in key phases, something that Auckland’s aggressive batters could exploit.
Wellington’s challenge will be to maintain discipline and avoid early collapses. While they possess individual brilliance, translating that into a complete team performance remains their biggest task.
Team Squads
Auckland Aces:
Dale Phillips, Keene, Martin Guptill, Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Cam Fletcher, Ryan Harrison, Adithya Ashok, Harjot Johal, Angus Olliver, Rohit Gulati
Wellington Firebirds:
Tim Robinson, Tom Blundell, Nick Kelly, Muhammad Abbas, Tashkoff, Gareth Severin, Logan van Beek, Younghusband, Nick Greenwood, Yahya Zeb, Michael Snedden
Probable Playing XI
| Auckland Aces | Wellington Firebirds |
|---|---|
| Dale Phillips | Tim Robinson |
| Keene | Tom Blundell |
| Martin Guptill | Nick Kelly (c) |
| Bevon Jacobs | Muhammad Abbas |
| Lachlan Stackpole | Tashkoff |
| Cam Fletcher (wk) | Gareth Severin |
| Ryan Harrison | Logan van Beek |
| Adithya Ashok | Younghusband |
| Harjot Johal | Nick Greenwood |
| Angus Olliver | Yahya Zeb |
| Rohit Gulati | Michael Snedden |
Auckland Aces vs Wellington Firebirds Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Bevon Jacobs, Nick Kelly, Martin Guptill |
| All-rounders | Logan van Beek, Harjot Johal |
| Wicketkeeper | Cam Fletcher |
| Bowlers | Angus Olliver, Adithya Ashok, Yahya Zeb, Rohit Gulati |
This fantasy combination focuses on in-form batters and wicket-taking all-rounders. Bevon Jacobs and Nick Kelly are must-picks due to their consistency and ability to play long innings. Martin Guptill offers explosive potential at the top. Harjot Johal and Logan van Beek provide dual value with bat and ball, increasing fantasy points potential. Cam Fletcher is a safe wicketkeeping option, while bowlers like Angus Olliver and Adithya Ashok can exploit Eden Park conditions.
Captain Choices: Bevon Jacobs, Nick Kelly
Vice-Captain Choices: Harjot Johal, Logan van Beek
Players to Avoid: Gareth Severin, Younghusband (inconsistent form)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match – Auckland Aces (Why?)
Auckland Aces are the clear favorites due to their unbeaten run, superior balance, and home advantage. Their batting depth, combined with disciplined bowling, gives them an edge over Wellington Firebirds, who are still finding consistency. With key players in form and a strong head-to-head record, Auckland are better equipped to control this match from start to finish.
Auckland Aces T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 208 | 102 | 84 | 21 | 1 |
Wellington Firebirds T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 194 | 86 | 88 | 20 | 0 |
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Auckland Aces Won | Wellington Firebirds Won | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 21 | 15 | 4 |
Auckland Aces have historically dominated this rivalry, winning 21 of the 40 encounters. Their edge becomes more pronounced in home conditions, making them favorites again.
Pitch Report
Eden Park Outer Oval is a balanced surface offering early assistance to seamers and grip for spinners later. Batters who apply themselves early can accelerate in the second half. Scores around 160–170 are competitive. Chasing sides often enjoy a slight advantage due to dew and better assessment of conditions.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Weather | Clear |
| Temperature | 22–24°C |
| Rain Chance | Minimal |
Expect ideal playing conditions with no rain interruptions.
Toss Prediction
Teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first. Eden Park Outer Oval often becomes easier for batting under lights, and chasing allows teams to plan better on a surface that can slow down as the game progresses.
Score Prediction
- If Auckland Aces bat first: 166+
- If Wellington Firebirds bat first: 144+
Auckland’s stronger batting depth gives them an advantage in both scenarios.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Top Batter: Bevon Jacobs
Jacobs has been Auckland’s most consistent performer, combining patience with aggressive stroke play. He is well-suited to Eden Park conditions and can anchor or accelerate as required.
Probable Top Bowler: Harjot Johal
Johal’s variations and control make him a major threat in the middle overs. His previous success against Wellington strengthens his case as the bowler to watch.
Also Check For More: Super Smash League Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on current form, squad depth, and historical dominance, Auckland Aces are favorites to win this match. Wellington Firebirds may put up a fight, but Auckland’s batting firepower and disciplined bowling should see them through. Expect Auckland Aces to extend their unbeaten run in the Super Smash 2025–26.
Winner: Auckland Aces 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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