Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds Prediction: Who Will Win CK vs WF 26th ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The 26th ODI of The Ford Trophy 2025-26 between Canterbury Kings and Wellington Firebirds promises high-quality domestic cricket at Hagley Oval. In this detailed Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds prediction, we assess current form, squad balance, venue trends, and key player matchups to determine today’s likely winner. Canterbury Kings are sitting comfortably at the top of the table, having lost just one match this season — ironically against Wellington Firebirds earlier in the tournament. That defeat will serve as motivation for Henry Nicholls and his men as they look to continue their dominant run at home.
Tom Latham has been in exceptional touch, scoring 103, 104, and 97 in his last three innings. His consistency at the top gives Canterbury a structural advantage in long-format white-ball cricket. The Kings have already demonstrated their batting firepower by chasing 265 comfortably against Central Stags and posting a massive 384-run total in Auckland. Their bowling unit has also delivered, dismissing opposition sides for under 200 in consecutive matches.
Wellington Firebirds, currently third on the table, arrive with momentum after two consecutive victories. Jesse Tashkoff has been outstanding with six wickets in his last two innings, while Tom Blundell’s lower-order contributions have added depth. Hagley Oval has produced balanced contests this season, with no clear toss bias.
Given Canterbury’s superior top-order form and home advantage, they enter as favorites. However, Wellington have already beaten them once and possess the bowling arsenal to challenge the table toppers again.
Match Details
| Match | CK vs WF, 26th ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, February 13th, 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM |
| Venue | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Team Preview
Canterbury Kings Preview
Canterbury Kings have been the most consistent side in the competition this season. Their recent win over Northern Knights showcased their dominance, bowling the opposition out for 158 and chasing the target within 31 overs. Tom Latham once again anchored the chase with a composed hundred, reinforcing his role as the team’s batting pillar.
The top order features Henry Nicholls, Rhys Mariu, and Latham — all capable of constructing long innings. Nicholls brings stability, while Latham’s ability to rotate strike and accelerate makes him indispensable. Matthew Boyle and Mitchell Hay provide depth in the middle order, and Cole McConchie offers dual value with bat and off-spin.
Bowling has been Canterbury’s biggest strength. LLB Harper and McConchie have controlled middle overs, while Fraser Sheat and Michael Rae provide seam threat upfront. In their last two matches, the Kings have bowled out opponents under 200, reflecting tactical discipline and bowling efficiency.
Key trends show a 50+ partnership for the second wicket in their last three outings, highlighting top-order consistency. Playing at Hagley Oval — where they have won both matches this season — further strengthens their confidence.
Predicted XI:
Henry Nicholls (c), Rhys Mariu, Tom Latham (wk), Matthew Boyle, Mitchell Hay, Cole McConchie, Leo Carter, LLB Harper, Sean Davey, Fraser Sheat, Michael Rae
Wellington Firebirds Preview
Wellington Firebirds enter this contest with renewed belief after back-to-back wins. Their bowling attack has shown versatility, with Jesse Tashkoff and Nick Greenwood delivering breakthroughs in crucial phases. The captain’s decision to rotate eight bowling options in the last match reflects tactical flexibility.
Tom Blundell has been consistent in the lower order, scoring 49, 41, and 51 in his last three innings. Tim Robinson and Nick Kelly will be key in stabilizing the innings at numbers 4 and 5. Muhammad Abbas provides finishing ability.
Nathan Smith, Liam Dudding, and Peter Younghusband form a varied bowling lineup. However, their middle-order collapse (73/2 to 104/6) in their previous meeting against Canterbury exposes vulnerability under pressure.
If Wellington are to challenge Canterbury at Hagley Oval, they must produce a collective batting performance rather than rely on individual brilliance.
Predicted XI:
Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Greenwood, Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly (c), Muhammad Abbas, Tom Blundell (wk), Nathan Smith, Oscar Jackson, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding
Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 13th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Tom Latham |
| Batters | Henry Nicholls, Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly |
| All-rounders | Cole McConchie, LLB Harper, Nathan Smith |
| Bowlers | Fraser Sheat, Michael Rae, Jesse Tashkoff, Peter Younghusband |
Tom Latham is the safest captaincy option given his remarkable form. Henry Nicholls offers stability at the top, while Tim Robinson can score brisk runs in middle overs. Cole McConchie provides fantasy balance with both bat and ball.
Fraser Sheat and Michael Rae are wicket-taking options with the new ball. Jesse Tashkoff’s recent six wickets in two innings make him a high-impact bowling pick. Nathan Smith contributes across departments, enhancing fantasy value.
Captain Choices: Tom Latham, Cole McConchie
Vice-Captain Choices: Henry Nicholls, Jesse Tashkoff
Players to Avoid: Oscar Jackson, Liam Dudding
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Canterbury Kings are firm favorites due to their superior batting depth and consistent bowling unit. Their home advantage at Hagley Oval further strengthens their position. The form of Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls provides top-order dominance, while their bowlers have maintained tight control throughout the season.
Wellington Firebirds have momentum, but their middle-order inconsistencies and occasional collapses reduce reliability. Given current trends and overall squad balance, Canterbury holds a clear tactical advantage.
Pitch Report
Hagley Oval offers an even surface with consistent bounce. Seamers get early assistance under overcast conditions, but the pitch settles for batting as the innings progresses. Scores around 250 are competitive here. Historically, chasing teams have had slight success, though this season results are balanced.
Weather Report
| Factor | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 19–23°C |
| Rain | 20% Chance |
| Humidity | 60–65% |
| Wind | Light Breeze |
Cloud cover may assist seamers early, but overall playing conditions look suitable for a full match.
Broadcast Details
The CK vs WF 26th ODI will be streamed live on Fancode. Viewers can follow live commentary, score updates, and match analysis via the platform’s digital coverage.
Toss Prediction
Hagley Oval has shown mixed results regarding toss impact. Captains may prefer to bowl first if cloud cover persists.
Toss Winner Prediction: Wellington Firebirds
Decision: Bowl First
Score Prediction
If Canterbury Kings Bat First: 240–270
If Wellington Firebirds Bat First: 220–240
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Tom Latham is the most probable top scorer, given his exceptional run of form. Henry Nicholls could also contribute a substantial innings. For Wellington, Tim Robinson and Tom Blundell are key batting prospects.
Fraser Sheat is expected to lead Canterbury’s bowling attack, while Jesse Tashkoff remains Wellington’s primary wicket-taking threat.
Match Prediction
Canterbury Kings possess superior squad balance, consistent top-order runs, and disciplined bowling. Wellington Firebirds will compete strongly, but Canterbury’s home advantage and current momentum provide a decisive edge.
Match Prediction: Canterbury Kings 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.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricketwebs on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
