Northern Brave Women vs Otago Sparks Prediction: Who Will Win NBW vs OS 9th ODI Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Match?
The 9th match of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025 brings us an exciting clash at Cobham Oval as the in-form Northern Brave Women take on the struggling Otago Sparks. Fans searching for detailed insights and the Northern Brave Women vs Otago Sparks prediction will find this matchup intriguing for several reasons. Northern Brave Women produced a dominating performance in their previous outing, securing a massive 214-run victory over Wellington Blaze—one of the biggest wins in recent tournament history. Their batters look composed, their bowling unit is sharp, and their momentum appears undeniable heading into this contest.
On the other hand, the Otago Sparks are under immense pressure after suffering two heavy defeats. Their bowlers managed to take only one wicket in the last match, and the batting has failed to show resistance. After losing by nine wickets to Auckland Hearts, Otago Sparks now face an uphill task against a Northern Brave Women team brimming with confidence. Their campaign is at risk of slipping beyond recovery, making this fixture crucial for restoring belief and stability.
The Brave Women’s confidence continues to soar thanks to standout performances from players like Tash Wakelin and Lucy Boucher, who were instrumental in their recent massive win. Conversely, Sparks captain Felicity Leydon-Davis will need her team to step up collectively—with improved bowling discipline and middle-order stability.
As the second leg of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield intensifies, both teams will be eager to deliver a strong show. Cricket fans exploring alternate forms of the NBW vs OS match forecast will appreciate the tactical differences between a rising Northern Brave Women side and an Otago Sparks team desperate for a turnaround.
- Northern Brave Women come into this clash after a huge 214-run win.
- Otago Sparks have lost both matches by big margins so far.
- Sparks bowlers took only one wicket in their last match.
- Brave Women’s batting and bowling units are currently in top gear.
Match Details
| DETAILS | INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| Match | NBW vs OS, 9th ODI – Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025 |
| Date | Saturday, 29 November 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 AM |
| Venue | Cobham Oval Cricket Ground, Whangarei |
| Broadcast | Fancode |
Northern Brave Women – Team Preview
Northern Brave Women enter this match full of confidence after a sensational 214-run win over Wellington Blaze. It was a complete performance in every department, and captain Jess Watkin will hope her team can maintain that same energy as the tournament progresses.
Their batting has been particularly impressive. The opening pair of Jess Watkin and Yasmeen Kareem brings aggression and stability, ensuring the team gets quick starts. Tash Wakelin was the standout performer in the last match, delivering a match-winning knock that laid a strong foundation for the massive total. She will again be a key figure in the middle order, supported ably by Caitlin Gurrey and Nensi Patel—two players capable of steadying the innings after early wickets or accelerating as needed.
In the lower middle order, Eve Wolland and wicketkeeper Holly Topp provide excellent finishing ability. Their cameos often help push the team’s total beyond a competitive score.
The real strength of Northern Brave Women lies in their bowling department. Lucy Boucher’s sensational four-wicket haul in the previous game highlights her ability to strike early and consistently trouble top-order batters. Alongside her, Marama Downes forms a formidable new-ball pair capable of generating swing and seam movement at Cobham Oval.
Captain Jess Watkin brings her valuable off-spin into play during middle overs, creating pressure through tight lines and sharp turn. Kayley Knight, Nensi Patel, and Sophie Court add bowling depth, forming a well-rounded attack that can dismantle both strong and inconsistent batting units.
If the Northern Brave Women maintain their current rhythm, they are well positioned to dominate again.
Predicted Playing XI:
Jess Watkin (c), Yasmeen Kareem, Tash Wakelin, Caitlin Gurrey, Nensi Patel, Eve Wolland, Holly Topp (wk), Lucy Boucher, Marama Downes, Kayley Knight, Sophie Court
Otago Sparks – Team Preview
The Otago Sparks have endured a difficult start to the tournament, losing both matches and struggling in all departments. Captain Felicity Leydon-Davis will be desperate for her team to produce a stronger show and avoid falling further behind on the points table.
Their batting lacks momentum and consistency. Leydon-Davis will need to lead from the front and anchor the innings with partner Olivia Gain. In the middle order, Caitlin Blakely holds the key—she must rotate strike effectively and build partnerships with Bella James and wicketkeeper Polly Inglis.
The lower middle order, consisting of Saffron Wilson and Anna Browning, has shown sparks of potential but must convert starts into meaningful contributions. Without stability through the middle overs, Otago Sparks will continue struggling to post competitive totals.
The biggest concern for the Sparks is their bowling. Their unit managed only one wicket in the previous match—a worrying sign. Emma Black and Harriett Cuttance, who open the bowling, must deliver early breakthroughs to lift the team’s confidence. Jay Watkins and Louisa Kotkamp need to improve their economy and apply middle-overs pressure.
Support from all-rounders Leydon-Davis and Browning will be crucial. However, the Sparks will need a complete turnaround—better discipline, tighter fielding, and smarter spells—to genuinely challenge a strong Northern Brave Women side.
Predicted Playing XI:
Felicity Leydon-Davis (c), Olivia Gain, Caitlin Blakely, Bella James, Polly Inglis (wk), Saffron Wilson, Anna Browning, Poppy Jay Watkins, Emma Black, Louisa Kotkamp, Harriett Cuttance
Northern Brave Women vs Otago Sparks Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 29th November
| ROLE | PLAYERS |
|---|---|
| WK | Holly Topp |
| BAT | Jess Watkin, Tash Wakelin, Felicity Leydon-Davis |
| ALL | Nensi Patel, Caitlin Blakely |
| BOWL | Lucy Boucher, Marama Downes, Emma Black, Jay Watkins, Kayley Knight |
This fantasy XI emphasizes in-form players and match-impact attributes. Holly Topp is preferred as wicketkeeper due to her consistency and involvement behind the stumps. Jess Watkin and Tash Wakelin are essential picks considering their recent match-winning contributions with bat and ball.
Felicity Leydon-Davis, despite Otago’s struggles, remains a reliable performer capable of scoring runs in tough situations. Nensi Patel provides all-round value with her spin and middle-order batting. Caitlin Blakely is selected as she offers stability and potential for valuable runs.
The bowling unit features match-winners. Lucy Boucher, after her four-wicket performance, is a must-have. Marama Downes and Kayley Knight offer powerplay breakthroughs and control. Emma Black and Jay Watkins complete the lineup, having the potential to pick wickets even in a struggling Otago side.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Jess Watkin
- Vice-Captain: Tash Wakelin
Players to Avoid
- Saffron Wilson – inconsistent returns
- Anna Browning – low fantasy impact
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Northern Brave Women are the clear favourites going into this match. Their confidence is sky-high after a massive victory, and both their batting and bowling appear far more settled than Otago Sparks’. Their top order is in form, their middle order is contributing consistently, and their bowling unit—especially Boucher and Watkin—is operating with precision and discipline. This balance gives them a significant advantage over an Otago team still searching for rhythm.
Meanwhile, Otago Sparks have shown vulnerabilities in all departments, particularly their bowling attack, which has struggled to pick wickets. With Northern Brave’s top order firing, Sparks may again find it difficult to contain runs or apply pressure.
Given the teams’ recent form and depth, Northern Brave Women hold a strong edge in today’s contest.
Pitch Report
Cobham Oval offers a balanced surface, but bowlers often enjoy more assistance early on. Seamers get movement in the first 10 overs, making opening spells crucial. Batting becomes easier once set, and teams can capitalize during the middle overs. However, inconsistent bounce occasionally challenges stroke-making. Spinners can find grip later in the innings. A score around 200–215 is competitive, particularly if bowling units strike early.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected with mild temperatures. No rain is forecast, ensuring smooth playing conditions for a complete 50-over contest.
Broadcast Details
Live streaming for the match will be available on Fancode, offering full coverage, replays, and real-time updates.
Toss Prediction
Otago Sparks may win the toss and choose to bat first, aiming to avoid chasing under scoreboard pressure. Setting a total of 200+ could help them stay competitive.
Top Probable Batsmen & Bowlers
Batsmen to Watch
- Jess Watkin (NBW): In great form; capable of explosive starts.
- Felicity Leydon-Davis (OS): Key batter for Sparks, expected to anchor innings.
Bowlers to Watch
- Lucy Boucher (NBW): Coming off a brilliant four-wicket haul.
- Emma Black (OS): Best chance for Sparks to take early wickets.
These four players are likely to have the most impact in shaping the match’s direction.
Match Prediction
Northern Brave Women enter this match as strong favourites due to their commanding form and well-rounded team performance. Otago Sparks will need a near-perfect game to challenge them, but their recent struggles suggest it may be difficult.
Winner: Northern Brave Women 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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