Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces Prediction: Who Will Win WF vs AA 22nd ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces prediction for the 22nd ODI of the Ford Trophy 2025–26 points toward a tightly contested encounter, with Wellington holding a slight advantage on current form. This crucial match will be played on Tuesday, 10th February 2026, at Eden Park Outer Oval, Auckland. Auckland sit fourth with 14 points, while Wellington are third with 17 points, making this clash vital for playoff momentum. Cricketwebs provides 100% match prediction tips for every cricket match, and all key factors—form, squads, pitch, and conditions—have been analyzed below.
Match Details
| Match | WF vs AA, 22nd ODI (Ford Trophy 2025–26) |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 10 February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM (IST) |
| Venue | Eden Park Outer Oval, Auckland |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Auckland Aces Team Preview
Auckland Aces enter this contest with mixed fortunes in the Ford Trophy. With three wins and four losses from seven matches, they are placed fourth on the points table. Their most recent defeat against Central Stags exposed familiar issues—an underperforming batting unit unable to build partnerships under pressure. Being at home provides some comfort, but Auckland have lost their last two Ford Trophy matches at Eden Park Outer Oval, which raises concerns.
The batting responsibility largely rests on Cam Fletcher, who has been the most consistent run-getter with 239 runs at an average of 40. His role at the top and through the middle overs is crucial. Bevon Jacobs is another key batter and Auckland’s man to watch after scoring 46 in the previous game. He has accumulated 189 runs this season and often anchors the innings when early wickets fall. Harrish Kannan has also chipped in with 186 runs, though he is yet to convert starts into a defining knock.
Beyond these three, Auckland’s batting looks fragile. Players like Dale Phillips and Sean Solia need to provide solidity at the top, otherwise the middle order is exposed too early. The lack of depth has been a recurring theme in their losses.
Bowling remains Auckland’s relative strength. Adithya Ashok leads the attack with 10 wickets and has been effective in the middle overs. Ryan Harrison has supported well with eight wickets, offering control with the new ball. Rohit Gulati adds another seam option, but the bowling unit often finds itself defending low totals. For Auckland to challenge Wellington, their batters must step up collectively rather than relying on individual efforts.
Wellington Firebirds Team Preview
Wellington Firebirds have enjoyed a strong turnaround after losing their opening match of the season. Since then, they have won four of their last six games and currently occupy third place with 17 points. Their latest victory over Otago, where they defended 269 comfortably, highlighted their balanced squad and depth in both departments.
Tim Robinson has been the standout batter of the tournament so far. With 313 runs in just five innings at an impressive average of 62.60, he has consistently provided solid starts. His ability to play long innings makes him Wellington’s biggest asset. Tom Blundell has also been reliable at the top, scoring 269 runs across seven matches. While he may not always post big scores, his stability allows others to bat around him.
Captain Nick Kelly is another vital cog in the batting lineup. His classy 81 in the previous match showed his ability to control the tempo of the innings. Nick Greenwood complements the top order well, while Peter Younghusband adds depth lower down, often contributing handy runs when the side needs them most.
Wellington’s bowling attack has been equally impressive. James Hartshorn has been their leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets at an excellent average of 20.37, providing breakthroughs at crucial moments. Liam Dudding and Younghusband have claimed 11 wickets each, ensuring constant pressure from both ends. Jesse Tashkoff’s left-arm spin gives Wellington an extra dimension in the middle overs, particularly effective against right-heavy batting lineups.
Overall, Wellington look more settled and balanced than Auckland. Their combination of in-form batters and multiple wicket-taking bowlers makes them a formidable unit heading into this clash.
Team Squads
Auckland Aces Squad:
Dale Phillips, Sean Solia (c), Harrish Kannan, Cam Fletcher (wk), Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Ryan Harrison, Adithya Ashok, Harjot Johal, Rohit Gulati, Ben Lister
Wellington Firebirds Squad:
Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Greenwood, Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly (c), Muhammad Abbas, Tom Blundell (wk), Nathan Smith, Oscar Jackson, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding
Probable Playing XI
Auckland Aces:
Dale Phillips, Sean Solia (c), Harrish Kannan, Cam Fletcher (wk), Bevon Jacobs, Lachlan Stackpole, Ryan Harrison, Adithya Ashok, Harjot Johal, Rohit Gulati, Ben Lister
Wellington Firebirds:
Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Greenwood, Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly (c), Muhammad Abbas, Tom Blundell (wk), Nathan Smith, Oscar Jackson, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding
Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 10th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeepers | Tom Blundell, Cam Fletcher |
| Batters | Tim Robinson, Nick Kelly, Bevon Jacobs |
| All-rounders | Sean Solia, Peter Younghusband |
| Bowlers | James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding, Adithya Ashok, Ryan Harrison |
This fantasy combination balances form, consistency, and wicket-taking potential. Tim Robinson is a must-pick due to his prolific run-scoring this season and ability to play big innings. Nick Kelly adds stability and leadership, often contributing in pressure situations. From Auckland, Cam Fletcher and Bevon Jacobs are the safest batting options given their consistency in an otherwise fragile lineup.
All-rounders like Sean Solia and Peter Younghusband offer dual points through both batting and bowling, increasing fantasy value. In the bowling department, James Hartshorn stands out as the tournament’s most reliable wicket-taker, while Liam Dudding complements him with consistent spells. Adithya Ashok and Ryan Harrison are Auckland’s primary strike bowlers and can fetch points even if their team struggles.
Captain Options: Tim Robinson, James Hartshorn
Vice-Captain Options: Nick Kelly, Tom Blundell
Players to Avoid: Dale Phillips, Lachlan Stackpole (inconsistent form)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Wellington Firebirds
Wellington Firebirds start as favourites due to their superior balance and recent form. Unlike Auckland, Wellington do not rely on just one or two players. Their top order, led by Tim Robinson and supported by Blundell and Kelly, has consistently delivered competitive totals. Moreover, their bowling unit features multiple wicket-takers, with Hartshorn, Dudding, and Younghusband all capable of changing the game. Auckland’s struggles at Eden Park Outer Oval and their over-dependence on a few batters further tilt the scales in Wellington’s favor.
Pitch Report
Eden Park Outer Oval generally offers a balanced surface. Early on, seamers can extract some movement, especially under morning conditions. As the match progresses, the pitch becomes better for batting, allowing stroke-makers to play freely. Spinners come into play during the middle overs, particularly if batters look to accelerate. A first-innings score of around 240–260 is considered competitive here.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 21–24°C |
| Rain | Minimal chance |
| Humidity | Moderate |
Weather conditions are expected to remain clear with only mild cloud cover. Rain is unlikely to interrupt play, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Broadcast Details
The Wellington Firebirds vs Auckland Aces 22nd ODI will be streamed live on FanCode. Fans in India and other regions can watch the match via the FanCode app or website with a valid subscription.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first. Eden Park Outer Oval tends to offer better batting conditions later in the match, and chasing sides often feel more comfortable knowing the target. Auckland Aces are predicted to win the toss.
Score Prediction
- If Wellington Firebirds bat first: 239+
- If Auckland Aces bat first: 220+
Wellington’s deeper batting lineup gives them the edge in posting or chasing a competitive total.
Probable Top Batsman & Bowler
Tim Robinson is the most probable top scorer in this match, given his outstanding average and consistency throughout the season. For Auckland, Cam Fletcher remains their best hope with the bat. On the bowling front, James Hartshorn is expected to be the leading wicket-taker, thanks to his ability to strike at regular intervals. Adithya Ashok could be Auckland’s standout bowler, especially in the middle overs.
Match Prediction
Considering overall form, squad depth, and recent performances, Wellington Firebirds are better placed to win this encounter. Auckland Aces will need an exceptional collective batting effort to challenge them. Our prediction: Wellington Firebirds will 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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