Who Will Win Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds 12th T20 2026 Match Prediction
The Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds prediction for the 12th T20 of the Women’s Super Smash 2026 strongly favours the hosts, especially given their excellent record at Basin Reserve. This Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds prediction becomes even more interesting as the Blaze look to bounce back after their first loss of the season, while the Hinds arrive with confidence following a high-scoring win. Historically, Basin Reserve has been a tough venue for visiting teams, and Wellington Blaze have remained unbeaten against Central Hinds at this ground.
In this Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds prediction, conditions are expected to suit disciplined bowling and smart batting rather than all-out aggression. The average first-innings score here is around 134, meaning teams need to build innings carefully. Wellington Blaze, despite missing Amelia Kerr, still possess a strong core with experienced international players who know how to control games in pressure situations. Their bowling attack, led by Ellyse Perry and Jess Kerr, is among the most reliable in the competition.
Central Hinds, on the other hand, have shown they can score quickly at the top through Bryony Smith and Grace Scrivens. However, this Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds prediction hinges on how that aggressive opening pair handles the new ball against elite swing and seam bowling. Central Hinds have lost their last four Super Smash matches played in Wellington, which highlights the challenge they face here.
Overall, the Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds prediction points toward a competitive contest early on, but Wellington’s depth, experience, and home advantage give them the upper hand in this fixture.
Match Details
| Match | Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds, 12th T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, 7 January 2026 |
| Time | 5:10 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
| Tournament | Women’s Super Smash 2026 |
Wellington Blaze Preview
Wellington Blaze have been the standout team of the Women’s Super Smash 2026 so far, sitting at the top of the table with three wins from four matches. Their only setback came in the previous game against Auckland Hearts, where they suffered a five-wicket loss. Despite that defeat, the Blaze remain one of the most balanced sides in the competition and will be eager to respond strongly on home turf.
Batting has been steady rather than explosive for Wellington this season, particularly after the departure of Amelia Kerr. Georgia Plimmer has taken responsibility at the top, providing stability and rotating the strike effectively. Rebecca Burns adds experience alongside her, while Ellyse Perry remains the key figure in the middle order. Perry’s ability to absorb pressure and accelerate when needed makes her central to Wellington’s batting plans. Maitlan Brown has also contributed useful lower-order runs, ensuring the Blaze can push totals beyond par scores.
The bowling unit is Wellington’s biggest strength. Ellyse Perry and Jess Kerr form one of the most disciplined new-ball combinations in women’s cricket, consistently hitting good lengths and controlling the powerplay. Kerr’s leadership has been impressive, particularly in managing bowlers through key phases. Xara Jetly has been outstanding in the middle overs, using her variations to stifle scoring and pick up crucial wickets. Support from Hannah Francis and Jess Simmons provides depth and flexibility in bowling options.
Fielding has also been a major positive for Wellington Blaze. They are sharp in the ring, athletic in the outfield, and rarely miss chances, which often makes the difference in low-scoring games at Basin Reserve.
Heading into this match, Wellington Blaze will focus on building a competitive total if batting first and then using their bowling discipline to apply constant pressure. Given their unbeaten record against Central Hinds at this venue, confidence will be high.
Central Hinds Preview
Central Hinds come into this match placed fourth on the points table with two wins and two losses from four matches. Their recent form received a major boost after a thrilling seven-run victory over Canterbury Magicians, where both their batting depth and bowling resilience were on display.
The strength of Central Hinds lies in their aggressive top order. Bryony Smith has been in exceptional touch, scoring quickly inside the powerplay and putting bowlers under immediate pressure. Grace Scrivens complements her well, combining timing with controlled aggression. Together, they have formed one of the fastest-scoring opening pairs in the tournament. Flora Devonshire has added stability at number three, while Emma McLeod and captain Hannah Rowe have chipped in with important middle-order contributions.
Rowe’s leadership has been crucial, especially in high-pressure moments. Her all-round ability adds balance to the side, allowing the Hinds flexibility in both batting and bowling combinations. Rosemary Mair and Ashtuti Kumar strengthen the lower order and also provide key overs with the ball.
Bowling has improved significantly in recent matches. Grace Scrivens’ off-spin has emerged as a genuine wicket-taking option, particularly in the middle overs. Claudia Green and Ashtuti Kumar have provided breakthroughs, while Rosemary Mair’s experience helps in closing out tight games. However, consistency remains an issue, especially away from home.
One major concern for Central Hinds is their record at Wellington. They have lost their last four Super Smash matches at this venue, often struggling to adapt to the slower surface and disciplined bowling attacks. Against Wellington Blaze, handling the new ball will be critical. If Smith and Scrivens can survive the powerplay, the Hinds will give themselves a real chance. Otherwise, they could find themselves on the back foot early.
Team Squads
Wellington Blaze
Georgia Plimmer, Rebecca Burns, Ellyse Perry, Maitlan Brown, Jess Kerr (c), Xara Jetly, Hannah Francis, Jessica McFadyen (wk), Isla McKenzie, Nicole Baird, Jess Simmons
Central Hinds
Bryony Smith, Grace Scrivens, Flora Devonshire, Emma McLeod, Hannah Rowe (c), Kerry-Anne Tomlinson, Rosemary Mair, Kate Gaging (wk), Cate Pedersen, Claudia Green, Ashtuti Kumar
Probable Playing XI
| Wellington Blaze | Central Hinds |
|---|---|
| Georgia Plimmer | Bryony Smith |
| Rebecca Burns | Grace Scrivens |
| Ellyse Perry | Flora Devonshire |
| Maitlan Brown | Emma McLeod |
| Jess Kerr (c) | Hannah Rowe (c) |
| Xara Jetly | Kerry-Anne Tomlinson |
| Hannah Francis | Rosemary Mair |
| Jessica McFadyen (wk) | Kate Gaging (wk) |
| Isla McKenzie | Cate Pedersen |
| Nicole Baird | Claudia Green |
| Jess Simmons | Ashtuti Kumar |
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Wellington Blaze are the favourites for this match due to their strong home record, disciplined bowling attack, and superior experience. They have never lost to Central Hinds at Basin Reserve and understand the conditions better than most visiting teams. Even without Amelia Kerr, the Blaze possess match-winners like Ellyse Perry and Jess Kerr, who can control games with both bat and ball. Their fielding standards further strengthen their chances in what is often a low-scoring venue. Central Hinds have momentum, but Wellington’s consistency and tactical clarity make them the stronger side.
Pitch Report
The Basin Reserve pitch traditionally offers assistance to bowlers, especially early in the innings. The surface tends to be slow, making stroke play challenging unless batters work the gaps and rotate strike. Seamers who bowl disciplined lengths can extract movement, while spinners are effective in the middle overs. The average first-innings score is around 134, and teams batting first should aim for anything above 140 to feel competitive.
Weather Report
Weather conditions in Wellington are expected to be clear with mild temperatures. There is minimal chance of rain, ensuring a full match without interruptions.
Broadcast Details
The Wellington Blaze vs Central Hinds 12th T20 Women’s Super Smash 2026 will be streamed live on FanCode.
Toss Prediction
Teams winning the toss may prefer to bat first, post a competitive total, and let their bowlers defend under pressure on a challenging surface.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman: Ellyse Perry
Perry’s experience and ability to adapt to conditions make her the most reliable batting option. She can anchor the innings and accelerate when required.
Probable Bowler: Jess Kerr
Kerr’s control with the new ball and leadership in bowling changes make her a strong candidate to pick up key wickets in the powerplay.
Match Prediction
Wellington Blaze hold a clear advantage due to home conditions, superior bowling depth, and a strong record against Central Hinds at Basin Reserve. Central Hinds may challenge early with aggressive batting, but Wellington’s discipline should prevail.
Final Prediction: Wellington Blaze to win the match.
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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