Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds Prediction: Who Will Win CS vs WF Eliminator ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds prediction for the Eliminator ODI of the Ford Trophy 2025-26 promises an intense contest at Basin Reserve, Wellington. Both teams have won 6 matches each in the league stage, finishing second and third respectively. With a place in the final at stake, expect a high-pressure battle. Central Districts have been dominant this season, led by Brad Schmulian’s consistency and Josh Clarkson’s all-round brilliance.
Wellington, however, hold a strong home record and boast match-winners like Tim Robinson and Tom Blundell. The average first-innings score at Basin Reserve this season is 275 runs, indicating a competitive surface. Central Stags already defeated Wellington earlier at this venue after posting 307 runs, which gives them psychological advantage.
However, Wellington’s bowling attack, especially James Hartshorn and Peter Younghusband, can trouble the Stags’ middle order. Considering current form, balance in both departments, and head-to-head momentum, this Eliminator could be a tactical battle between Central’s aggressive top order and Wellington’s disciplined bowling unit.
Match Details
| Match | CS vs WF, Eliminator ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 20th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Central Stags Preview
Central Districts have been one of the most consistent teams in the Ford Trophy 2025-26. With 6 wins in 10 matches, they secured second place in the points table. Their recent 22-run victory over Canterbury highlighted their strong all-round capabilities. Batting first, they scored 276 runs, defending successfully thanks to disciplined bowling.
Curtis Heaphy was exceptional in the last match, scoring 117 off 142 balls. Brad Schmulian remains the backbone of the batting lineup, amassing 439 runs at an average of 62.71. Dean Foxcroft has also been reliable with 340 runs. The presence of experienced batter Will Young adds stability.
In bowling, Josh Clarkson has been outstanding with 19 wickets, making him one of the tournament’s leading wicket-takers. Brett Randell and Raymond Toole provide excellent seam options, while Jayden Lennox controls the middle overs with spin.
Central Stags previously scored 307 at Basin Reserve and defeated Wellington, showing their ability to adapt to conditions here. Their balanced squad and recent form make them strong contenders.
Wellington Firebirds Preview
Wellington Firebirds also won 6 out of 10 matches and finished third. Their dominant 118-run win over Northern Districts in the last game showcased their strength. Posting 281 runs, they bowled out the opposition convincingly.
Tim Robinson leads their batting charts with 370 runs at 42.25, including two centuries. Tom Blundell has contributed 367 runs and brings experience. Jesse Tashkoff and Nathan Smith add depth.
Bowling is Wellington’s major strength. James Hartshorn has taken 19 wickets at an economy of 5.44, while Peter Younghusband’s 4-wicket haul in the previous match demonstrates his impact. Nathan Smith provides crucial breakthroughs.
Wellington have won 3 of 5 matches at Basin Reserve this season, making them dangerous at home. However, inconsistency against top teams remains a concern.
Team Squads
Central Stags Squad: Brad Schmulian, Curtis Heaphy, Will Young, Dean Foxcroft, Dane Cleaver, Josh Clarkson, Angus Schaw, Brett Randell, Jayden Lennox, Blair Tickner, Raymond Toole.
Wellington Firebirds Squad: Tim Robinson, Tom Blundell, Nick Kelly, Jesse Tashkoff, Nathan Smith, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Michael Snedden, Muhammad Abbas, Nick Greenwood, Oscar Jackson.
Probable Playing XI
Central Stags: Schmulian, Heaphy, Young, Foxcroft, Cleaver, Clarkson, Schaw, Randell, Lennox (c), Tickner, Toole.
Wellington Firebirds: Tashkoff, Greenwood, Jackson, Robinson, Kelly (c), Abbas, Blundell, Smith, Younghusband, Snedden, Hartshorn.
Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 20th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Tom Blundell |
| BAT | Brad Schmulian, Tim Robinson, Will Young, Curtis Heaphy |
| AR | Josh Clarkson, Dean Foxcroft |
| BOWL | James Hartshorn, Brett Randell, Raymond Toole, Peter Younghusband |
Brad Schmulian and Tim Robinson are must-picks due to consistency. Josh Clarkson offers dual value with bat and ball, making him ideal captain choice. Hartshorn and Randell are reliable wicket-takers. Avoid risky picks who lack recent form.
Captain Choices: Josh Clarkson, Brad Schmulian
Vice-Captain Choices: Tim Robinson, James Hartshorn
Players to Avoid: Oscar Jackson, Muhammad Abbas
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today Match
Central Stags appear favourites due to superior batting depth and prior win at this venue. Their bowling attack, led by Clarkson and Randell, has delivered consistently. Moreover, their top order has produced multiple match-winning knocks this season. Wellington are competitive but slightly inconsistent under pressure.
Pitch Report
Basin Reserve generally offers true bounce and seam movement early on. The average first innings score this season is around 275 runs. Pacers get assistance with the new ball, while spinners become effective in middle overs. A competitive total would be 260+.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 19°C |
| Humidity | 63% |
| Rain Chances | 10% |
| Wind | Moderate breeze |
Weather is expected to remain clear with minimal interruption.
Broadcast Details
The match will be live streamed on Fancode. Fans can follow ball-by-ball updates through official Ford Trophy channels and social media platforms.
Toss Prediction
Teams may prefer to bowl first considering early seam movement. However, batting first has produced high totals here. Toss winner: Wellington Firebirds.
Score Prediction
If Central Stags bat first: 270+
If Wellington bat first: 231–260 range.
Probable Best Batsman & Bowler
Brad Schmulian and Tim Robinson are prime batting contenders. Schmulian’s average above 60 makes him reliable. Robinson’s century-making ability can shift momentum. In bowling, Josh Clarkson and James Hartshorn are leading wicket-takers and expected to dominate.
Central Stags vs Wellington Firebirds Winning Chances?
| Team | Winning % | Why | Why Not |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Stags | 85% | Better balance & recent win | Overconfidence risk |
| Wellington | 15% | Strong home record | Inconsistent middle order |
Match Prediction
Considering current form, team balance, and previous head-to-head success at Basin Reserve, Central Stags hold the edge. Their batting depth and bowling consistency make them strong favourites. Wellington will fight hard at home, but overall momentum supports Central Districts.
Prediction: Central Stags 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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