Who Will Win Northern Brave vs Wellington Blaze Final ODI 2026 Match Prediction
The Northern Brave vs Wellington Blaze prediction for the Final ODI 2026 suggests an exciting contest as two dominant sides clash for the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield title at the iconic Basin Reserve. Both teams have showcased consistency throughout the season, but Northern Brave enter the final with an unbeaten streak and strong momentum. Cricketwebs brings you the best match prediction tips, detailed previews, probable XIs, pitch insights, and winning chances for today’s grand finale.
Match Details
| Match | NB vs WB, Final ODI 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 21st February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
| Competition | Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Final |
| Broadcaster | Fancode |
Northern Brave Women Preview
Northern Brave women have been the standout side in this year’s Hallyburton Johnstone competition. Winning eight out of ten matches in the round-robin stage, they enter this final unbeaten in their last nine games. This consistency reflects a well-balanced squad that has delivered in both departments—batting and bowling—under pressure situations.
Captain Jess Watkins has led from the front with tactical sharpness and impactful performances. However, the batting department revolves significantly around the in-form Caitlin Gurrey, who has amassed 479 runs in 10 innings. Her ability to anchor innings and accelerate when required makes her the most crucial batter for Northern Brave. Gurrey has scored two half-centuries in her last three matches, highlighting her red-hot form heading into the final.
Alongside her, Yasmeen Kareem and Nensi Patel provide stability in the middle order. Nensi Patel’s all-round contributions add depth, while wicketkeeper Holly Topp and Tash Wakelin can provide valuable finishing touches. The team management will likely stick to their winning combination given their remarkable consistency.
In the bowling department, off-spinner Jess Watkins has been exceptional, claiming 16 wickets this season. Her ability to control the middle overs and pick key breakthroughs will be vital on the Basin Reserve surface. Marama Downes and Kayley Knight add pace variety, while Lucy Boucher and Carol Agafili strengthen the attack.
The key advantage for Northern Brave lies in their balanced lineup. They possess strong top-order batting, multiple all-rounders, and wicket-taking bowlers who can defend totals. Their unbeaten run also gives them a psychological edge. If they bat first, setting a total above 240 could put Wellington Blaze under immense scoreboard pressure.
Wellington Blaze Women Preview
Wellington Blaze women have fought hard to reach the final and will enter this contest with confidence. The return of star all-rounder Amelia Kerr significantly strengthens their lineup. Kerr is a proven match-winner who contributes with both bat and ball, and her presence in a high-stakes final can change the course of the match.
Captain Georgia Plimmer has marshaled her troops efficiently throughout the tournament. In the batting department, Hannah Francis provides stability at the top. The middle-order core of Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, and Xara Jetly is capable of turning games around. Jess Kerr, in particular, has enjoyed a tremendous season, scoring 274 runs and picking up 17 wickets at an average of 16.88.
Amelia Kerr has averaged an outstanding 128.00 in her two appearances, demonstrating her elite quality. If she gets going, Wellington Blaze can dominate proceedings.
Bowling remains a major strength for the Blaze. Xara Jetly has claimed 18 wickets this season and has been their most consistent performer with the ball. Jess Kerr and Amelia Kerr provide seam and spin options, while Jessica Simmons and Nicola Baird add depth to the bowling unit.
However, Wellington Blaze’s challenge will be containing Caitlin Gurrey early and maintaining discipline in the field. They must capitalize on powerplay overs and avoid leaking runs in the death overs. If they can restrict Northern Brave under 220, they stand a realistic chance of lifting the trophy.
Team Squad
Northern Brave Women Squad
Jess Watkins (c), Yasmeen Kareem, Caitlin Gurrey, Nensi Patel, Holly Topp (wk), Kayley Knight, Eve Wolland, Tash Wakelin, Lucy Boucher, Marama Downes, Carol Agafili.
Wellington Blaze Women Squad
Georgia Plimmer (c), Hannah Francis, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rebecca Burns, Jessica McFayden (wk), Xara Jetly, Isla McKenzie, Jessica Simmons, Nicola Baird, Rachel Bryant.
Probable Playing XI
Northern Brave Women
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Jess Watkins (c) | All-rounder |
| Yasmeen Kareem | Batter |
| Caitlin Gurrey | Batter |
| Nensi Patel | All-rounder |
| Holly Topp (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Kayley Knight | Bowler |
| Eve Wolland | Batter |
| Tash Wakelin | All-rounder |
| Lucy Boucher | Bowler |
| Marama Downes | Bowler |
| Carol Agafili | Bowler |
Wellington Blaze Women
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Georgia Plimmer (c) | Batter |
| Hannah Francis | Batter |
| Amelia Kerr | All-rounder |
| Jess Kerr | All-rounder |
| Rebecca Burns | Batter |
| Jessica McFayden (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Xara Jetly | Bowler |
| Isla McKenzie | All-rounder |
| Jessica Simmons | Bowler |
| Nicola Baird | Bowler |
| Rachel Bryant | Bowler |
Favourite Team in Today Match – Why?
Northern Brave women are favorites heading into this final due to their unbeaten streak and dominant all-round performances throughout the tournament. Their batting lineup is stable, anchored by Caitlin Gurrey’s exceptional form, while their bowling unit has consistently delivered breakthroughs at crucial stages. With Jess Watkins leading tactically and contributing with both bat and ball, the team looks well-balanced.
Additionally, their experience of maintaining composure under pressure gives them a competitive edge. Wellington Blaze are strong, especially with Amelia Kerr’s presence, but Northern Brave’s overall consistency and winning momentum make them the likely favorites in this final clash.
Pitch Report – Basin Reserve
The Basin Reserve pitch traditionally offers assistance to batters early on, with true bounce and pace. As the match progresses, spinners can extract grip and turn, especially in the middle overs. The surface generally favors teams batting first, as scoreboard pressure plays a major role in finals. A first-innings score around 230–250 is considered competitive. Seamers may find slight movement in the initial overs, particularly under overcast conditions. Overall, batting first appears to be the preferred strategy in this grand finale.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18–22°C |
| Rain Chances | 10% |
| Humidity | 65% |
| Wind | Moderate Breeze |
| Conditions | Partly Cloudy |
Weather conditions are expected to remain favorable for a full 50-over contest. Minimal rain threat ensures uninterrupted play, while moderate winds may assist seamers slightly during the early overs.
Broadcast Details
The Northern Brave vs Wellington Blaze Final ODI 2026 will be broadcast live on Fancode. Fans can stream the match via the Fancode app and website. Live scores, commentary, and match updates will also be available across major cricket platforms.
Toss Prediction
Considering the pitch behavior at Basin Reserve, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt for batting first. Finals often bring scoreboard pressure into play, and setting a target above 240 could be decisive. Toss Winner Prediction: Northern Brave.
Probable Best Batsman & Bowler
Caitlin Gurrey stands out as the probable best batter in this final. Her tally of 479 runs in 10 innings showcases consistency and adaptability. She has the technique to counter pace and spin, making her Northern Brave’s key run accumulator.
For Wellington Blaze, Amelia Kerr remains the biggest batting threat due to her ability to build innings and accelerate when required.
In the bowling department, Xara Jetly is expected to be the standout performer. With 18 wickets this season, she has consistently delivered breakthroughs. For Northern Brave, Jess Watkins’ off-spin could be pivotal in controlling middle overs and picking up crucial wickets.
Northern Brave vs Wellington Blaze Winning Chances?
| Team | Winning Chances | Why | Why Not |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Brave | 75% | Unbeaten run, balanced squad, Gurrey’s form | Pressure of final |
| Wellington Blaze | 25% | Presence of Amelia & Jess Kerr, strong bowling | Inconsistent top-order |
Match Prediction
Northern Brave women hold the upper hand due to superior consistency, strong batting depth, and a well-rounded bowling attack. Wellington Blaze possess match-winners, but Northern Brave’s unbeaten momentum and balanced lineup give them a decisive advantage. If they bat first and cross 240, they are likely to control the game.
Prediction: Northern Brave 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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