Northern Knights vs Otago Volts Prediction: Who Will Win NK vs OV 22nd T20 Super Smash Match?
The Northern Knights vs Otago Volts prediction for the 22nd T20 match of the Super Smash 2025–26 shapes up as a high-stakes encounter with playoff implications for both sides. Scheduled for Sunday, 18th January 2026, at the University Oval in Dunedin, this fixture arrives at a crucial juncture of the league stage. The Northern Knights vs Otago Volts prediction is influenced heavily by recent momentum, head-to-head dominance, and venue trends that slightly favor the visitors.
Northern Knights (Northern Brave) are currently enjoying their best phase of the tournament, riding on a three-match winning streak. They have also beaten the Otago Volts in their last two completed encounters, which gives them a significant psychological edge. Otago Volts, meanwhile, are coming off a confidence-boosting win over the Wellington Firebirds but remain under pressure, sitting fourth on the points table and needing a win to keep their Eliminator hopes alive. This context adds extra intensity to today’s Northern Knights vs Otago Volts prediction.
University Oval has historically been a challenging venue for Otago, who have lost three of their last five matches here. Northern Knights, on the other hand, arrive with a settled combination, strong all-round depth, and match-winners across departments. If they can continue their disciplined bowling and aggressive middle-order batting, they will be hard to stop. Overall, based on form, balance, and recent record, the Northern Knights vs Otago Volts prediction leans in favor of the Knights, although Otago’s desperation could make this a closely fought contest.
- Northern Knights are on a three-match winning streak and look in strong form.
- Otago Volts must win to stay alive in the playoff race.
- Knights have won the last two head-to-head matches against Otago.
- Venue trends and squad depth slightly favor Northern Knights.
Match Details
| Match | NK vs OV, 22nd T20 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Super Smash 2025–26 |
| Date | Sunday, 18 January 2026 |
| Time | 8:55 AM |
| Venue | University Oval, Dunedin |
Team Preview
Northern Knights Preview
Northern Knights have timed their resurgence perfectly, winning three consecutive matches and putting themselves firmly in contention for a top-three finish. After a shaky start, the side has found rhythm in both batting and bowling, which is reflected in their recent results.
Katene D’Clarke played a match-defining knock in the previous game and will once again be key at the top alongside Brett Hampton. Captain Ben Pomare, batting at No.3, provides stability and has the responsibility of anchoring the innings while allowing stroke-makers to play freely around him. The middle order is packed with experience and power, featuring Mitchell Santner and Scott Kuggeleijn, both of whom can change the game with bat or ball. Robert O’Donnell and Xavier Bell add finishing firepower, giving the Knights depth till No.7.
Bowling remains Northern Knights’ biggest strength. Matthew Fisher and Scott Kuggeleijn are expected to strike early with the new ball, while Mitchell Santner controls the middle overs with his accuracy and variation. Tim Pringle has been effective as the fifth bowler, and support from Fergus Lellman and Joshua Brown ensures flexibility. Overall, Northern Knights look like a well-oiled unit heading into this contest.
Otago Volts Preview
Otago Volts are still searching for consistency in the Super Smash. Their recent five-wicket win over Wellington Firebirds was timely, but they remain in a precarious position on the table. Captain Max Chu will be hoping his side can build on that momentum.
Jacob Cumming showed good intent in the previous match and will be crucial at the top along with Jamal Todd. Max Chu’s role in the middle order is vital, especially in guiding the innings during pressure phases. Jack Boyle, Troy Johnson, and Llew Johnson add solidity, while Jake Gibson and Ben Lockrose strengthen the lower order.
Otago’s bowling attack has quality but has lacked consistency. Jacob Duffy remains their spearhead and will be expected to strike early. Ben Lockrose provides control, while Matthew Bacon and Zac Cumming must improve their execution in the middle overs. Contributions from all-rounders like Jake Gibson and Llew Johnson will be key if Otago are to challenge a strong Knights lineup.
Also Check: Super Smash 2025-26: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squad
Northern Knights Squad:
Ben Pomare, Katene D’Clarke, Brett Hampton, Robert O’Donnell, Mitchell Santner, Xavier Bell, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Pringle, Fergus Lellman, Joshua Brown, Matthew Fisher
Otago Volts Squad:
Max Chu, Jacob Cumming, Jamal Todd, Jack Boyle, Llew Johnson, Troy Johnson, Jake Gibson, Ben Lockrose, Zac Cumming, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Bacon
Probable Playing XI
| Northern Knights | Otago Volts |
|---|---|
| Ben Pomare (c & wk) | Max Chu (c & wk) |
| Katene D’Clarke | Jacob Cumming |
| Brett Hampton | Jamal Todd |
| Robert O’Donnell | Jack Boyle |
| Mitchell Santner | Llew Johnson |
| Xavier Bell | Troy Johnson |
| Scott Kuggeleijn | Jake Gibson |
| Tim Pringle | Ben Lockrose |
| Fergus Lellman | Zac Cumming |
| Joshua Brown | Jacob Duffy |
| Matthew Fisher | Matthew Bacon |
Northern Knights vs Otago Volts Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeepers | Ben Pomare, Max Chu |
| Batters | Katene D’Clarke, Jacob Cumming, Jack Boyle |
| All-rounders | Mitchell Santner, Scott Kuggeleijn, Jake Gibson |
| Bowlers | Matthew Fisher, Jacob Duffy, Tim Pringle |
This fantasy XI focuses on all-rounders and multi-skill players, who generally provide higher points potential in T20 matches. Mitchell Santner is a must-pick due to his consistent four overs and ability to contribute handy runs. Scott Kuggeleijn is another high-value selection, offering wicket-taking ability and late-order hitting. Katene D’Clarke and Jacob Cumming are reliable top-order batters and can score bulk runs if they settle early. Among bowlers, Matthew Fisher and Jacob Duffy are wicket-taking options, especially in the powerplay. Ben Pomare and Max Chu provide wicketkeeping points and leadership stability.
Captain Choices: Mitchell Santner, Scott Kuggeleijn
Vice-Captain Choices: Katene D’Clarke, Jacob Cumming
Players to Avoid: Zac Cumming, Fergus Lellman (inconsistent form, limited fantasy impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Northern Knights (Why?)
Northern Knights are favorites due to their strong recent form, superior head-to-head record, and better balance across departments. Their batting lineup has depth and flexibility, while their bowling attack, led by Santner and Kuggeleijn, is more reliable under pressure. Otago Volts, despite home advantage, have struggled with consistency, especially in middle overs bowling. These factors collectively make Northern Knights the stronger side.
Northern Knights T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | 96 | 88 | 16 | 0 |
Otago Volts T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 198 | 83 | 93 | 21 | 1 |
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | NK Won | OV Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | 19 | 16 | 3 |
Northern Knights hold a narrow advantage in head-to-head contests and have won the last two completed matches against Otago Volts.
Pitch Report – University Oval, Dunedin
The University Oval offers a balanced surface with some early movement for seamers. As the match progresses, batting becomes easier, but bowlers who vary pace remain effective. A first-innings score around 145–150 is competitive.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 16–18°C |
| Rain Chance | Low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Wind | Light breeze |
The weather is expected to be mostly clear with cool conditions, ideal for a full 40-over contest.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports TEN Network, with digital streaming available on SonyLiv and FanCode, ensuring wide coverage for viewers.
Toss Prediction
Teams may prefer to bowl first due to early movement. Otago Volts are predicted to win the toss, but batting first could still be a viable option.
Score Prediction
If Northern Knights bat first, they are expected to score around 145–150. If Otago Volts bat first, a total of 135–140 is likely.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
In the Northern Knights vs Otago Volts prediction, the spotlight will be on a few key performers who can decisively influence the outcome of this 22nd T20 clash. For Northern Knights, Katene D’Clarke stands out as the most probable top batsman. Coming off a confident knock in the previous match, D’Clarke has shown the ability to handle pressure and score briskly at the top of the order. His role in providing a solid start alongside Brett Hampton will be crucial. For Otago Volts, Jacob Cumming is the batter to watch. He looked composed in the last game and is capable of anchoring the innings while accelerating when required.
On the bowling front, Mitchell Santner is the most likely game-changer for Northern Knights. His accuracy, control in the middle overs, and knack for picking timely wickets make him a major threat. For Otago Volts, Jacob Duffy remains the most probable wicket-taker, especially with the new ball, where his swing and discipline can trouble the Knights’ top order.
Match Prediction
Considering form, squad balance, and head-to-head record, Northern Knights hold the edge in this encounter. Otago Volts will need an exceptional performance to upset them.
Final Prediction: Northern Knights 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.
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