Who Will Win Wellington Blaze vs Northern Brave 16th T20 2026 Match Prediction

The Wellington Blaze vs Northern Brave prediction for the 16th T20 of the Women’s Super Smash 2025–26 sets up an important contest between the table-toppers and a resurgent challenger. Scheduled for Sunday, 11th January 2026, at the iconic Basin Reserve, this match comes at a decisive phase of the league stage. Wellington Blaze have been the most consistent side of the tournament so far, registering four wins from six matches and sitting comfortably at the top of the standings. Their performances have been marked by depth in batting, disciplined bowling, and strong leadership under captain Jess Kerr.

Northern Brave, meanwhile, arrive in Wellington with renewed confidence after a commanding 105-run win over Canterbury Magicians in their previous outing. That victory showcased their potential when both batting and bowling units click together. With the Brave now placed third on the table, this fixture represents an opportunity to close the gap on the leaders and strengthen their push for a top-two finish.

Earlier in the season, Wellington Blaze dominated Northern Brave with a comprehensive 61-run victory, which will be fresh in the minds of both sides. Wellington will aim to replicate that performance, while Northern Brave will be eager to prove that their recent improvements can translate into a stronger showing against the competition’s most balanced team. Key players such as Ellyse Perry, Maitlan Brown, and Jess Kerr give Wellington an edge, but Northern Brave’s form players, including Tash Wakelin and Marama Downes, are capable of turning the contest.

Given the stakes, form guide, and previous head-to-head result, the Wellington Blaze vs Northern Brave prediction points toward a competitive encounter, with execution in the powerplay and middle overs likely to decide the outcome.

Match Details

Team Previews

Wellington Blaze Preview

Wellington Blaze have enjoyed a strong and consistent campaign in the Women’s Super Smash 2025–26, emerging as the most complete side in the competition. With four wins from six matches, the Blaze have combined stability at the top with flexibility in the middle order and a bowling attack capable of adapting to conditions.

Batting has been a collective effort. Georgia Plimmer has provided solid starts, anchoring the innings when early wickets have fallen. Ellyse Perry’s presence adds class and calmness, allowing Wellington to build innings with control before accelerating. In the previous match against Otago, Maitlan Brown played a defining role, scoring an unbeaten 44 off just 25 balls, underlining Wellington’s ability to finish strongly. Captain Jess Kerr has also contributed crucial runs down the order, ensuring the Blaze do not rely on one or two individuals.

The bowling unit has been equally impressive. Jess Kerr leads from the front with accuracy and movement, while Nicola Baird has been effective in breaking partnerships, as seen in her 2/17 spell in the last game. Xara Jetly and Maitlan Brown offer variety, controlling the middle overs and applying pressure through disciplined lines. Ellyse Perry’s ability to chip in with key overs further strengthens Wellington’s bowling depth.

Overall, Wellington Blaze appear settled, confident, and tactically astute. Their ability to dominate key phases of the game, particularly the death overs, makes them a formidable opponent. Against Northern Brave, Wellington will aim to impose themselves early and maintain control throughout the contest.

Northern Brave Preview

Northern Brave come into this match with renewed belief after a comprehensive win in their previous outing. That performance lifted them to third place on the points table and highlighted the potential within their squad when execution matches intent.

At the top of the order, Tash Wakelin has been the standout batter. Her unbeaten 86 off 52 balls in the last match was a statement innings, showcasing her ability to anchor while scoring at a healthy strike rate. Support from Marina Lamplough and Jess Watkins has helped stabilize the batting unit, though consistency across matches remains an area to improve. Nensi Patel’s contributions, both with bat and ball, add balance to the side.

Northern Brave’s bowling attack is their biggest strength. Marama Downes delivered a match-winning spell of 4/11 in the previous match, demonstrating her ability to exploit conditions and apply pressure. Lucy Boucher and Nensi Patel have complemented her well, providing control and regular breakthroughs. Kayley Knight adds further depth, ensuring Northern Brave have wicket-taking options throughout the innings.

Despite their recent success, Northern Brave face a tough challenge against a Wellington side that has already beaten them convincingly this season. To reverse that result, they will need a strong start with the bat and early wickets with the ball. If they can replicate the discipline shown in their last match, Northern Brave have the tools to push Wellington into a close contest.

Team Squads

Wellington Blaze Squad:
Jess Kerr, Georgia Plimmer, Ellyse Perry, Maitlan Brown, Rebecca Burns, Xara Jetly, Jessica McFadyen, Hannah Francis, Isla McKenzie, Jessica Simmons, Nicole Baird

Northern Brave Squad:
Jess Watkins, Tash Wakelin, Caitlin Gurrey, Eve Wolland, Nensi Patel, Marina Lamplough, Carol Agafili, Holly Topp, Lucy Boucher, Marama Downes, Kayley Knight

Probable Playing XI

Favourite Team Today

Wellington Blaze are the clear favourites in today’s match due to their superior consistency and depth across all departments. They have already defeated Northern Brave convincingly earlier in the season and arrive with strong momentum at the top of the table. Wellington’s batting lineup features multiple contributors, ensuring they are not overly dependent on one player. Their bowling unit, led by Jess Kerr and supported by Nicola Baird and Maitlan Brown, has been disciplined and effective in key moments. Northern Brave are improving and showed their potential in the last match, but Wellington’s experience, balance, and home advantage at Basin Reserve give them a decisive edge in this contest.

Pitch Report

The Basin Reserve pitch traditionally offers good bounce and carry, favoring batters who trust the surface. Early overs can assist seamers with movement, especially under morning conditions. As the match progresses, batting becomes easier, but disciplined bowling can still restrict scoring. A first-innings total around 130–140 is considered competitive in women’s T20s at this venue.

Weather Report

Clear conditions are expected in Wellington, with mild temperatures and minimal rain risk. Light winds may assist swing bowlers early, but overall weather should not interrupt play.

Broadcast Details

The Wellington Blaze vs Northern Brave match will be streamed live on FanCode, offering full digital coverage, live scores, and highlights of the Women’s Super Smash 2025–26.

Toss Prediction

Teams may prefer to bowl first at Basin Reserve to exploit early movement and chase under known conditions. Wellington Blaze are slightly favoured to win the toss.

Probable Batsman & Bowler

For Wellington Blaze, Ellyse Perry is the most reliable batter, capable of anchoring and accelerating as required. Maitlan Brown’s finishing ability adds further value. With the ball, Jess Kerr is expected to lead the attack, while Nicola Baird could provide crucial breakthroughs. For Northern Brave, Tash Wakelin remains the key batting hope after her recent unbeaten 86. Marama Downes is the standout bowler, capable of changing the game with early wickets.

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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