Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts Prediction: Who Will Win OS vs AH 6th ODI Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Match?
The Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 2025/26 moves into another exciting chapter as Otago Sparks take on the in-form Auckland Hearts in the 6th ODI at University Oval, Dunedin. Fans searching for a reliable and detailed Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts prediction are eager to see whether the home side can bounce back after being thoroughly outplayed in their first meeting of the season. Auckland Hearts delivered a clinical performance in the opening match, winning comfortably via the DLS method, thanks to a strong display from Fran Jonas, Brooke Halliday, and Amie Hucker. Meanwhile, Otago Sparks will be determined to respond strongly, especially after credible individual efforts from Saffron Wilson and Louisa Kotkamp.
Looking at the overall Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts match outlook, it becomes clear that Sparks must improve significantly in their bowling and middle-order stability if they hope to challenge the Hearts. Auckland have begun the season as one of the most balanced and efficient units, showcasing depth in both batting and bowling. Their ability to dominate tricky situations makes them a formidable opponent. Otago, despite being outplayed in their previous encounter, have key match-winners such as Suzie Bates, Polly Inglis, and Caitlin Blakely—players who are capable of turning the tide when conditions favour them.
University Oval traditionally demands discipline and patience due to its moderate pace and early seam movement. A competitive score in the range of 220–240 often shapes the outcome at this iconic venue. With both teams possessing quality all-rounders and smart tactical leaders, today’s match promises to be closely fought, tense, and full of momentum swings.
Match Details
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Match | Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts, 6th ODI |
| Date | Sunday, 16 November 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | University Oval, Dunedin |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Team Preview
Otago Sparks Preview
Otago Sparks come into this match hoping to correct the mistakes of their opening performance. Their batting, led by senior names like Suzie Bates, Saffron Wilson, and Polly Inglis, must take responsibility early. Saffron Wilson was outstanding in the first match, scoring a composed 79 off 97 balls, keeping Sparks in the contest. Supporting efforts came from Olivia Gain (21), Emma Black (23), and Louisa Kotkamp (16), but partnerships never flourished, which ultimately cost them a competitive total.
With the ball, Sparks struggled to apply sustained pressure, though Louisa Kotkamp stood out with figures of 2/19. Emma Black, Poppy-Jay Watkins, Felicity Leydon-Davis, and Harriet Cuttance must step up to restrict Auckland’s in-form batters. They possess the quality—what’s missing is consistency over prolonged spells. Suzie Bates’ experience as both batter and part-time bowler will be crucial, especially on a surface that offers subtle movement.
To bounce back, Sparks need early wickets and tighter middle-overs control. Their batting lineup is capable, but avoiding collapses will be key against Auckland’s dynamic bowling attack.
Auckland Hearts Preview
Auckland Hearts have begun their season in style with a dominant seven-wicket win over Otago Sparks. Their batting looked sharp, controlled, and paced perfectly in a rain-affected chase. Brooke Halliday was the standout performer with an unbeaten half-century (50*), showcasing her strong touch and composure. Lauren Down added a valuable 39 off 59, while wicketkeeper Prue Catton contributed a fluent 25. Bella Armstrong also chipped in with an unbeaten 21, providing strong finishing stability.
Their bowling attack was equally impressive. Fran Jonas and Amie Hucker both claimed three wickets in the previous encounter, troubling the Sparks batters with sharp lines and consistent control. Alongside them, Molly Penfold and Josie Penfold provide swing and pace variation, while captain Maddy Green’s tactical nous continues to elevate the team’s overall performance.
Auckland look well-settled and confident. Their bowling depth, combined with a calm batting unit, makes them one of the strongest teams in the competition. If they replicate even 80% of their previous performance, they will remain firm contenders today.
Team Squads
Otago Sparks Squad
Felicity Leydon-Davis (c), Olivia Gain, Saffron Wilson, Suzie Bates, Caitlin Blakely, Polly Inglis (wk), Anna Browning, Emma Black, Poppy Jay Watkins, Louisa Kotkamp, Harriet Cuttance.
Auckland Hearts Squad
Maddy Green (c), Lauren Down, Prue Catton (wk), Brooke Halliday, Bella Armstrong, Josie Penfold, Molly Penfold, Elizabeth Buchanan, Amie Hucker, Fran Jonas, Bree Illing.
Probable Playing XI
Otago Sparks
- Felicity Leydon-Davis (c)
- Suzie Bates
- Saffron Wilson
- Olivia Gain
- Caitlin Blakely
- Polly Inglis (wk)
- Emma Black
- Anna Browning
- Louisa Kotkamp
- Poppy Jay Watkins
- Harriet Cuttance
Auckland Hearts
- Maddy Green (c)
- Lauren Down
- Prue Catton (wk)
- Brooke Halliday
- Bella Armstrong
- Josie Penfold
- Molly Penfold
- Elizabeth Buchanan
- Amie Hucker
- Fran Jonas
- Bree Illing
Otago Sparks vs Auckland Hearts Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 16th November
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Polly Inglis |
| BAT | Suzie Bates, Lauren Down, Brooke Halliday |
| AR | Maddy Green (C), Bella Armstrong, Saffron Wilson |
| BOWL | Fran Jonas (VC), Amie Hucker, Louisa Kotkamp, Emma Black |
This fantasy XI is crafted to maximize impact from all phases of the match. Maddy Green is chosen as captain due to her consistent contributions with the bat and leadership impact. She can steady the innings or accelerate based on the situation. Vice-captain Fran Jonas is an automatic pick following her three-wicket haul and proven wicket-taking skills.
Polly Inglis remains a reliable wicketkeeper capable of adding valuable runs. The batting core consists of Suzie Bates—whose experience is unmatched—Brooke Halliday, who is in red-hot form, and Lauren Down, known for her stability at the top.
In the all-rounder section, Bella Armstrong brings finishing ability along with wicket-taking potential, while Saffron Wilson adds solidity after her impressive 79-run knock.
The bowling unit is packed with wicket-takers. Amie Hucker, Louisa Kotkamp, and Emma Black ensure consistent breakthroughs. This balanced lineup maximizes scoring opportunities in batting, bowling, fielding, and strike-rate categories.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
Top Captain Choices
- Maddy Green
- Suzie Bates
Top Vice-Captain Choices
- Fran Jonas
- Brooke Halliday
Players to Avoid
- Elizabeth Buchanan – limited fantasy impact.
- Harriet Cuttance – inconsistent wicket-taking record.
Favourite Team for Today
Although Auckland Hearts are in red-hot form and begin the match as favourites on paper, Otago Sparks are expected to bounce back strongly, especially with home conditions in their favour. Their batting lineup contains experienced players like Suzie Bates and Saffron Wilson, who can anchor long innings on a pitch like University Oval.
Sparks also possess several underrated bowlers—Emma Black, Kotkamp, and Watkins—who can exploit swing-friendly conditions in the early overs. If Sparks manage early breakthroughs and avoid middle-order collapses, they have a strong chance of dictating the game. Their motivation to avenge the previous defeat gives them an extra mental edge.
Pitch Report
University Oval offers moderate pace with early assistance for seamers. Batting becomes easier after the initial 10 overs, but overhead conditions can influence movement. Teams batting first often target 220–240. Spinners find grip during the middle overs, but boundaries are reachable for well-timed strokes.
Weather Report
Dunedin will experience clear skies with cool conditions. No rain is expected, ensuring a full 50-over match.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: FanCode
- Telecast: Not Available in India
Toss Prediction
Auckland Hearts to win the toss
Match Prediction
Winner: Otago Sparks 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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