Auckland Aces vs Otago Volts Prediction: Who Will Win AA vs OV 28th ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The Auckland Aces vs Otago Volts prediction for the 28th ODI of the Ford Trophy 2025-26 brings two struggling sides face to face at John Davies Oval, Queenstown. While both teams are already out of playoff contention, this clash still carries importance as they aim to finish the season on a positive note. Auckland Aces have managed three wins this season but lacked consistency, whereas Otago Volts are yet to register a single victory, making this their final opportunity to avoid a winless campaign.
Otago’s batting has revolved around Max Chu, who has scored 235 runs at an impressive average of 39.16. However, lack of partnerships and frequent top-order collapses have hurt them throughout the season. Their bowling unit, led by Matthew Bacon (11 wickets), has shown glimpses of promise but struggled to defend modest totals.
On the other hand, Auckland Aces have been slightly better balanced. Cam Fletcher leads their run charts with 240 runs, including a century, while Bevon Jacobs and Harrish Kannan have provided stability. The bowling department, spearheaded by Adithya Ashok (13 wickets at 5.61 economy), gives Auckland a clear edge in middle overs.
John Davies Oval has historically offered competitive conditions with a first-innings average of 208 runs. Teams crossing 230+ often dominate. Given Auckland’s stronger batting depth and more consistent bowling attack, they enter as favorites in this contest.
Both teams will look to play fearless cricket with nothing to lose. However, Auckland’s overall squad balance and previous victories against Otago give them a psychological advantage heading into this match.
Match Details
| Match | AA vs OV, 28th ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 17th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | John Davies Oval, Queenstown |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Otago Volts Preview
Otago Volts have endured a disappointing campaign in the Ford Trophy 2025-26. Despite playing nine matches, they remain winless with six losses and three no-results. Their inability to convert starts into match-winning performances has been the major reason behind their struggles.
In the batting department, Max Chu has been the standout performer with 235 runs in eight matches at an average of 39.16. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required makes him Otago’s most reliable batter. However, the lack of support from the top order has consistently put pressure on the middle order. Luck Georgeson has contributed 140 runs in six innings but has failed to convert starts into big scores.
The bowling unit has shown more promise compared to their batting lineup. Matthew Bacon has taken 11 wickets in eight matches and has been the most effective bowler for Otago. Jarrod McKay (10 wickets) and Ben Lockrose (9 wickets) have supported him well, but they have often struggled to defend below-par totals.
Otago’s main issue has been batting collapses during the middle overs and lack of scoreboard pressure. If they are to upset Auckland in this final fixture, they must build partnerships and post at least 230+ on this surface.
Auckland Aces Preview
Auckland Aces have had an inconsistent campaign with three wins and five losses. Although they showed glimpses of brilliance, especially in victories against Wellington and Otago earlier in the season, inconsistency cost them a playoff spot.
Cam Fletcher has been their batting pillar, scoring 240 runs in nine matches, including a century. His ability to play long innings provides stability at the top. Bevon Jacobs (227 runs) has added solidity in the middle order, while Harrish Kannan’s 158 runs have come at crucial moments.
The bowling department is Auckland’s biggest strength. Adithya Ashok leads with 13 wickets at an impressive economy of 5.61. Simon Keene (10 wickets in six matches) and Ben Lister provide reliable support. Their ability to pick wickets in middle overs gives Auckland a clear tactical advantage.
Auckland’s balance between bat and ball makes them favorites. If their top order fires, they can post 240+ comfortably and control the match with disciplined bowling.
Team Squads
Auckland Aces Squad
Dale Phillips, Sean Solia (c), Ryan Harrison, Cam Fletcher, Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Simon Keene, Adithya Ashok, Rohit Gulati, Ben Lister, Siddhesh Dixit.
Otago Volts Squad
Jacob Cumming, Hugo Bogue, Jack Boyle, Luck Georgeson (c), Max Chu, Troy Johnson, Zac Cumming, Ben Lockrose, Mason Clerke, Matthew Bacon, Jarrod McKay.
Probable Playing XI
Auckland Aces
Dale Phillips, Sean Solia (c), Ryan Harrison, Cam Fletcher, Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Simon Keene, Adithya Ashok, Rohit Gulati, Ben Lister, Siddhesh Dixit.
Otago Volts
Jacob Cumming, Hugo Bogue, Jack Boyle, Luck Georgeson (c), Max Chu, Troy Johnson, Zac Cumming, Ben Lockrose, Mason Clerke, Matthew Bacon, Jarrod McKay.
Auckland Aces vs Otago Volts Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 17th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Cam Fletcher |
| BAT | Max Chu, Bevon Jacobs, Dale Phillips |
| ALL | Sean Solia, Luck Georgeson |
| BOWL | Adithya Ashok, Matthew Bacon, Jarrod McKay, Ben Lister, Simon Keene |
Cam Fletcher is a must-pick as wicketkeeper due to his consistent run-scoring and ability to anchor innings. Max Chu remains Otago’s most dependable batter, while Bevon Jacobs adds stability in the middle order. Dale Phillips can provide aggressive starts in powerplay.
Sean Solia and Luck Georgeson are valuable all-round options as they contribute in both departments. Adithya Ashok is the top bowling pick due to his wicket-taking ability and control. Matthew Bacon and Jarrod McKay can exploit early movement. Ben Lister and Simon Keene strengthen the bowling attack.
Captain Choices:
- Cam Fletcher
- Adithya Ashok
Vice-Captain Choices:
- Max Chu
- Sean Solia
Players to Avoid:
Hugo Bogue, Mason Clerke (inconsistent contributions)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Auckland Aces are the favorites due to better balance and recent performances. Their batting lineup has multiple contributors, unlike Otago, which heavily depends on Max Chu. Additionally, Auckland’s bowling attack, led by Adithya Ashok, has been more consistent in taking wickets at crucial moments. Otago’s lack of wins highlights their inability to close matches. Given Auckland’s stronger bowling depth and past success against Otago this season, they hold a clear advantage in this encounter.
Pitch Report
John Davies Oval typically offers a competitive surface with assistance for seamers early on. The average first-innings score here is around 208 runs. Batters who settle in can score freely as the pitch becomes better for stroke play later. Spinners might get slight grip in middle overs, but overall, it remains a batting-friendly venue if partnerships are built.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18–22°C |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Rain | Minimal Chance |
| Wind | Light Breeze |
Weather is expected to remain clear with pleasant conditions, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Broadcast Details
The match will be streamed live on Fancode. Fans can also follow live scores, commentary, and updates via official cricket platforms and sports news websites.
Toss Prediction
Teams batting first have generally enjoyed success when posting above 220 at this venue. However, morning moisture could assist bowlers early. The toss-winning captain may prefer to bowl first to assess conditions.
Predicted Toss Winner: Otago Volts
Score Prediction
If Auckland Aces bat first: 240+
If Otago Volts bat first: 215+
Auckland have stronger finishing ability and can push totals beyond par scores.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Cam Fletcher and Max Chu are the most likely top scorers for their respective teams. Fletcher’s ability to rotate strike and play long innings makes him crucial. Bevon Jacobs can accelerate in middle overs. For Otago, Chu remains the backbone of batting.
In bowling, Adithya Ashok will be key with his middle-over control. Matthew Bacon could exploit early movement with the new ball. Simon Keene and Ben Lister provide strong pace options.
Match Prediction
Auckland Aces enter this contest with better squad depth and more consistent performances. Otago Volts have struggled throughout the season and lack confidence. If Auckland’s top order clicks, they should dominate proceedings.
Our Prediction: 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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