Who Will Win Auckland Hearts vs Wellington Blaze 30th ODI 2026 Match Prediction
The final round-robin fixture of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025-26 sets up an exciting clash at Wellington. In this detailed Auckland Hearts vs Wellington Blaze prediction, we analyze team form, key player performances, venue conditions, and tactical matchups to determine the likely winner. Wellington Blaze will be eager to bounce back after being outplayed in the previous encounter, while Auckland Hearts arrive with strong momentum following back-to-back victories.
The Basin Reserve is traditionally known for assisting seamers, especially under overcast conditions. That trend may influence captains to bowl first after winning the toss. Jess Kerr has been a dependable all-round performer for Wellington this season, contributing consistently with both bat and ball. However, Auckland’s bowling attack, led by Josie Penfold’s remarkable six-wicket haul in the previous game, gives them a significant edge heading into this contest.
With both teams looking to end the league stage on a positive note, this match promises to be competitive. However, Auckland Hearts appear slightly better balanced in both departments and carry the psychological advantage after their recent victory over Wellington.
Match Details
| Match | AH vs WB, 30th ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, February 15th, 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM |
| Venue | Basin Reserve |
| Tournament | Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025-26 |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Wellington Blaze Preview
Wellington Blaze will be keen to regroup after a disappointing outing against Auckland. Despite flashes of brilliance, inconsistency with the bat has been a recurring theme this season.
Captain Georgia Plimmer has struggled for consistency, scoring 180 runs in eight innings at an average of 22.50. However, her 65-run knock in the previous match showed resilience under pressure. Jess Kerr remains Wellington’s most reliable all-rounder, capable of delivering crucial breakthroughs and adding valuable lower-order runs.
The bowling unit has been one of their strengths. Xara Jetly leads the wicket charts for Wellington with 18 wickets at an impressive average of 19.28. Jessica Simmons and Jess Kerr provide additional seam options, especially useful in Wellington’s bowler-friendly conditions.
The key challenge for Wellington lies in converting starts into substantial totals. Their middle order must provide greater support if they are to compete effectively. With no centuries recorded by their batters this season, building partnerships remains crucial.
Auckland Hearts Preview
Auckland Hearts enter this fixture brimming with confidence after consecutive wins. Their balanced squad has performed cohesively in recent matches.
Maddy Green has been instrumental with scores of 27, 109, and 36 in her last three innings, demonstrating consistency. Lauren Down’s return to form with a solid 56 adds stability at the top. Brooke Halliday and Isabelle Gaze strengthen the middle order.
The bowling attack has been exceptional. Josie Penfold’s sensational 6/30 in the previous match was a defining performance. Bree Illing complemented her brilliantly with 4/24, underlining Auckland’s bowling dominance. Molly Penfold and Amie Hucker add depth to the pace attack.
Auckland’s strength lies in their ability to defend moderate totals effectively. If their bowlers replicate recent performances, they are well-positioned to control the contest.
Team Squad
Wellington Blaze Squad
Georgia Plimmer (c), Jess Kerr, Hannah Francis, Xara Jetly, Isla McKenzie, Jessica McFayden, Sam Mackinder, Amelia Kerr, Jessica Simmons, Rachel Bryant, Nicole Baird.
Auckland Hearts Squad
Maddy Green (c), Lauren Down, Prue Catton, Brooke Halliday, Isabelle Gaze, Bella Armstrong, Bree Illing, Josie Penfold, Molly Penfold, Amie Hucker, Ayaan Lambat.
Probable Playing XI
| Wellington Blaze | Auckland Hearts |
|---|---|
| Georgia Plimmer (c) | Maddy Green (c) |
| Jess Kerr | Lauren Down |
| Hannah Francis | Prue Catton |
| Xara Jetly | Brooke Halliday |
| Isla McKenzie | Isabelle Gaze |
| Jessica McFayden | Bella Armstrong |
| Sam Mackinder | Bree Illing |
| Amelia Kerr | Josie Penfold |
| Jessica Simmons | Molly Penfold |
| Rachel Bryant | Amie Hucker |
| Nicole Baird | Ayaan Lambat |
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Auckland Hearts hold a slight advantage due to stronger recent performances and bowling dominance. Josie Penfold’s six-wicket haul and Bree Illing’s consistency highlight a potent attack well-suited to Basin Reserve conditions. Maddy Green’s reliable batting further strengthens their case.
Wellington Blaze have talented individuals like Jess Kerr and Xara Jetly, but inconsistent batting and lack of big partnerships have hampered their campaign. Given Auckland’s momentum and balanced squad, they appear better positioned to secure another victory.
Pitch Report
Basin Reserve traditionally offers assistance to seam bowlers, especially with the new ball. Early movement and bounce can challenge top-order batters. As the game progresses, the surface becomes better for batting, but disciplined bowling remains crucial. The average first-innings score is around 210–220. Teams may prefer chasing given recent trends.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 15–19°C |
| Rain | 20% Chance |
| Humidity | 70% |
Cool conditions with slight chance of showers expected.
Broadcast Details
The AH vs WB 30th ODI will be streamed live on Fancode, providing comprehensive coverage, live commentary, and match highlights.
Toss Prediction
Given bowler-friendly conditions at Wellington, captains may prefer bowling first to exploit early movement.
Toss Winner Prediction: Auckland Hearts
Likely Decision: Bowl First
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Maddy Green is the most probable top scorer for Auckland, given her recent consistency. Lauren Down could provide stability at the top. For Wellington, Jess Kerr remains the key contributor.
With the ball, Josie Penfold is likely to continue her wicket-taking streak. Xara Jetly remains Wellington’s primary threat with her disciplined spin.
Match Prediction
Auckland Hearts possess better momentum, bowling depth, and batting stability. Wellington Blaze must produce an exceptional all-round performance to challenge them.
Prediction: Auckland Hearts 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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