Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds Prediction: Who Will Win CS vs WF 18th ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds prediction for the 18th ODI of the Ford Trophy 2025–26 points toward an important mid-table clash as the tournament enters its decisive second leg. Scheduled for Wednesday, 4th February 2026 at the Basin Reserve, Christchurch, this match carries significant weight for both sides, who are looking to recover after defeats in their previous outings. Central Stags lost heavily to Canterbury Kings, while Wellington Firebirds were outplayed by Auckland Aces, exposing weaknesses that both teams will be keen to address quickly.
From a form and matchup perspective, the Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds prediction slightly favors the Stags. They have enjoyed a good recent record against Wellington, winning the last two encounters, including a convincing victory earlier this season. Central’s bowling unit, led by the in-form Clarkson, has been one of the most effective in the competition, while Wellington’s top-order batting has struggled to fire consistently—an issue that could again haunt them against a disciplined Stags attack.
The Basin Reserve traditionally offers assistance to seamers early on, before flattening out into a good batting surface. This suits Central Stags, who possess multiple bowlers capable of exploiting movement with the new ball. Wellington Firebirds, meanwhile, will rely heavily on senior players like Nick Kelly and Tom Blundell to stabilize the innings and counter early pressure. If Wellington’s top three fail again, the Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds prediction will likely tilt decisively in Central’s favor.
Considering head-to-head momentum, bowling strength, and overall squad balance, Central Stags appear better placed to control this contest. However, with both teams desperate for points, expect a competitive game where execution in the first 20 overs could determine the result. Overall, the Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds prediction leans clearly toward a Central Stags victory.
Match Details
| Match | CS vs WF, 18th ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, 4th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM (IST) |
| Venue | Basin Reserve |
| Tournament | Ford Trophy |
Team Preview
Wellington Firebirds Preview
Wellington Firebirds have endured an inconsistent Ford Trophy campaign so far, marked by promising moments followed by batting collapses. Their most recent loss against Auckland Aces by 54 runs highlighted the core issue that has plagued them this season—the inability of the top order to provide stable starts. As the team returns for the second leg, captain Nick Kelly will be keen to use familiar conditions at the Basin Reserve to spark a turnaround.
At the top, Jesse Tashkoff and Callum McLachlan must deliver a solid opening partnership. Their failure to negotiate the new ball has repeatedly exposed the middle order to pressure. Nick Kelly remains the backbone of the batting lineup and will need to anchor the innings, supported by Gareth Severin and Sam Mycock. Experienced wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell adds quality and finishing ability, while Nick Greenwood and Sam Mycock can provide quick runs lower down.
Bowling has been another mixed area for Wellington. Liam Dudding and James Hartshorn are expected to strike early, but consistency has been lacking. Michael Snedden and Nick Greenwood must control the middle overs, while Jesse Tashkoff and Peter Younghusband provide support options. Unless Wellington’s bowlers tighten up and their top order shows resilience, they will struggle against a confident Central Stags unit.
Central Stags Preview
Central Stags enter this match determined to bounce back after a heavy defeat to Canterbury Kings. That loss exposed flaws in both batting and bowling, but the Stags remain one of the more balanced sides in the competition. Their recent dominance over Wellington Firebirds adds confidence ahead of this clash.
The batting unit looks solid on paper. Will Young and Brad Schmulian form a reliable opening pair capable of setting a strong platform. Tom Bruce has been one of Central’s most consistent batters this season, while Dean Foxcroft and Dane Cleaver add stability and flexibility in the middle order. Lower down, Josh Clarkson and William Clark can accelerate quickly, making Central dangerous in the final overs.
Central’s bowling attack is their biggest strength. Josh Clarkson has been outstanding, leading the wicket charts with 16 wickets so far. Raymond Toole and Blair Tickner provide pace and bounce, while Ajaz Patel adds control and variation with spin. Captain Jayden Lennox will expect a much-improved bowling performance after conceding heavily in the previous match. If the bowlers execute their plans well, Central Stags should dictate terms in this game.
Team Squads
Wellington Firebirds:
Nick Kelly, Jesse Tashkoff, Callum McLachlan, Gareth Severin, Sam Mycock, Tom Blundell, Nick Greenwood, Peter Younghusband, Michael Snedden, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding
Central Stags:
Jayden Lennox, Brad Schmulian, Will Young, Dean Foxcroft, Tom Bruce, Dane Cleaver, Josh Clarkson, William Clark, Ajaz Patel, Blair Tickner, Raymond Toole
Probable Playing XI
Wellington Firebirds:
Nick Kelly (c), Jesse Tashkoff, Callum McLachlan, Gareth Severin, Sam Mycock, Tom Blundell (wk), Nick Greenwood, Peter Younghusband, Michael Snedden, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding
Central Stags:
Jayden Lennox (c), Brad Schmulian, Will Young, Dean Foxcroft, Tom Bruce, Dane Cleaver (wk), Josh Clarkson, William Clark, Ajaz Patel, Blair Tickner, Raymond Toole
Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 4th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Tom Blundell |
| Batters | Will Young, Tom Bruce, Nick Kelly |
| All-rounders | Dean Foxcroft, Josh Clarkson |
| Bowlers | Blair Tickner, Ajaz Patel, Raymond Toole, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding |
This fantasy combination emphasizes in-form all-rounders and reliable top-order batters. Josh Clarkson is a must-pick due to his wicket-taking form and ability to contribute with the bat. Will Young and Tom Bruce are dependable run-scorers for Central Stags, while Nick Kelly remains Wellington’s most reliable batter. Tom Blundell provides extra fantasy value through wicketkeeping points and finishing ability.
In bowling, Blair Tickner and Raymond Toole are strong picks on a Basin Reserve surface that assists seamers. Ajaz Patel offers control and potential wickets in the middle overs. From Wellington, James Hartshorn and Liam Dudding are budget picks who could exploit early movement.
Captain options: Josh Clarkson, Will Young
Vice-captain options: Tom Bruce, Dean Foxcroft
Players to avoid: Callum McLachlan, Sam Mycock
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Central Stags (Why?)
Central Stags are clear favourites due to their stronger bowling attack, better recent head-to-head record, and more settled batting lineup. With Clarkson leading the wicket charts and multiple seam options suited to Basin Reserve conditions, Central have the tools to exploit Wellington’s fragile top order. Wellington’s inconsistency with the bat remains a concern, giving Central Stags a decisive edge.
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve pitch traditionally assists fast bowlers early with swing and bounce, especially under morning conditions. As the match progresses, the surface becomes more batting-friendly, allowing stroke-makers to play freely. Spinners play a secondary role, mainly containing runs. A first-innings total of around 245–255 is considered competitive.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 16–20°C |
| Rain Chance | Low |
| Wind | Moderate |
Cool and pleasant conditions are expected in Christchurch on match day. There is minimal chance of rain, and moderate winds may assist swing bowlers early. Overall, weather should allow a full 50-over contest without interruptions.
Broadcast Details
The Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds 18th ODI will be streamed live on FanCode, providing live coverage, ball-by-ball commentary, expert insights, and highlights across digital platforms.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first. Early assistance for seamers at the Basin Reserve makes chasing a preferred option once conditions ease and batters can assess the surface.
Score Prediction
If Central Stags bat first, they are expected to post 245+ runs. If Wellington Firebirds bat first, a score of around 240 runs is likely. Anything above 250 will be difficult to chase.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
For Central Stags, Will Young and Tom Bruce are the key batters capable of anchoring the innings and accelerating when needed. Josh Clarkson is the bowler to watch, given his exceptional wicket-taking form. Blair Tickner’s pace could also be decisive.
For Wellington Firebirds, Nick Kelly remains their most important batter, while Tom Blundell’s experience is vital in pressure situations. With the ball, James Hartshorn will be relied upon for early breakthroughs.
Match Prediction
Considering form, bowling strength, and head-to-head record, Central Stags enter this contest as firm favourites. Wellington Firebirds need a significant turnaround in batting form to challenge them. Our final prediction: Central Stags will win the 18th ODI.
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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