Wellington Firebirds vs Northern Knights Prediction: Who Will Win WF vs NK 30th ODI Ford Trophy Match?
The Wellington Firebirds vs Northern Knights prediction for the 30th ODI of the Ford Trophy 2025-26 brings us to a crucial encounter at Basin Reserve, Wellington. With playoff qualification on the line, both teams enter this contest under pressure. Wellington Firebirds are currently placed third on the points table and must secure a win to strengthen their chances of reaching the Eliminator. Northern Knights (Northern Brave), on the other hand, face a must-win situation to keep their qualification hopes alive after a rain-affected match against Auckland Aces.
Wellington Firebirds enjoy a strong home record at the Basin Reserve and have won their last four matches against Northern Knights. The venue has historically favored teams batting first, with four of the last six matches being won by the side setting a target. The average first-innings score here is around 233 runs, suggesting that a total above 250 could prove decisive.
The Firebirds suffered a shocking batting collapse in their previous game, being bowled out for just 68 against Canterbury Kings. However, their experienced core, including Nick Kelly and Tom Blundell, is capable of bouncing back. Northern Knights have shown glimpses of strong batting form, particularly through Robert O’Donnell, but inconsistency and struggles at this venue remain concerns.
Given Wellington’s familiarity with conditions and superior head-to-head record, they start as favorites. However, Northern Knights possess match-winners like Scott Kuggeleijn and Tim Pringle who can turn the game around if they execute well.
Match Details
| Match | WF vs NK, 30th ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 17th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 AM IST |
| Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
| Live Streaming | Fancode |
Wellington Firebirds Preview
Wellington Firebirds come into this game needing redemption after a disastrous outing against Canterbury Kings. Bowled out for just 68 runs, the team experienced a rare batting meltdown. Captain Nick Kelly will demand a strong comeback as they aim to secure a playoff berth.
The batting lineup revolves around Nick Kelly, who has been their most reliable batter this season. Jesse Tashkoff and Nick Greenwood must provide a solid start, especially considering the top-order collapse in the previous match. Tim Robinson and Muhammad Abbas add stability in the middle order, while Tom Blundell brings experience and finishing ability.
In the bowling department, Nathan Smith remains a key all-round asset. Liam Dudding and James Hartshorn will be crucial with the new ball, particularly in Wellington’s seam-friendly conditions. Peter Younghusband’s spin can play a vital role in the middle overs, especially if the pitch slows down.
Wellington have historically dominated Northern Knights, winning their last four encounters. Their home advantage at Basin Reserve further boosts their confidence. If their batting unit fires collectively, they have enough depth to post or chase competitive totals comfortably.
Northern Knights Preview
Northern Knights’ campaign has been inconsistent. A rain washout against Auckland Aces denied them valuable points, leaving them in a must-win scenario. Captain Robert O’Donnell has been their standout performer with 319 runs this season and must anchor the innings again.
Katene D Clarke and Scott Kuggeleijn are expected to provide aggressive starts. Kuggeleijn’s dual role as a batting option and strike bowler makes him a key figure. Henry Cooper and Fergus Lellman need to improve their consistency in the middle order, while Ben Pomare offers finishing support.
Bowling remains a concern. Zak Gibson and Kuggeleijn must strike early to contain Wellington’s strong batting lineup. Tim Pringle and Joshua Harvey Brown will be vital in middle overs, particularly if conditions favor spin.
Northern Knights have struggled at Basin Reserve, losing their last three matches at this venue. Overcoming this psychological hurdle will be crucial if they aim to upset Wellington in this high-pressure contest.
Team Squad
Wellington Firebirds Squad
Nick Kelly (c), Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Greenwood, Tim Robinson, Muhammad Abbas, Tom Blundell (wk), Nathan Smith, Oscar Jackson, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding.
Northern Knights Squad
Robert O’Donnell (c), Katene D Clarke, Scott Kuggeleijn, Fergus Lellman, Henry Cooper, Xavier Bell, Ben Pomare (wk), Snehith Reddy, Tim Pringle, Joshua Harvey Brown, Zak Gibson.
Probable Playing XI
Wellington Firebirds
Nick Kelly (c), Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Greenwood, Tim Robinson, Muhammad Abbas, Tom Blundell (wk), Nathan Smith, Oscar Jackson, Peter Younghusband, James Hartshorn, Liam Dudding.
Northern Knights
Robert O’Donnell (c), Katene D Clarke, Scott Kuggeleijn, Fergus Lellman, Henry Cooper, Xavier Bell, Ben Pomare (wk), Snehith Reddy, Tim Pringle, Joshua Harvey Brown, Zak Gibson.
Wellington Firebirds vs Northern Knights Today’s Fantasy Prediction – 17th February
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Tom Blundell |
| BAT | Nick Kelly, Robert O’Donnell, Tim Robinson |
| ALL | Nathan Smith, Scott Kuggeleijn |
| BOWL | Liam Dudding, Peter Younghusband, Tim Pringle, Zak Gibson, James Hartshorn |
Tom Blundell offers consistency as wicketkeeper-batter. Nick Kelly is a reliable captaincy choice due to his anchor role. Robert O’Donnell’s form makes him essential from Northern Knights. Tim Robinson adds top-order stability.
Nathan Smith and Scott Kuggeleijn are premium all-rounders capable of earning fantasy points in both departments. Liam Dudding and James Hartshorn provide wicket-taking potential with the new ball. Peter Younghusband and Tim Pringle are good spin options for middle overs, while Zak Gibson adds depth in the bowling unit.
Captain Choices: Nick Kelly, Scott Kuggeleijn
Vice-Captain Choices: Nathan Smith, Robert O’Donnell
Players to Avoid: Henry Cooper (inconsistent form), Xavier Bell (limited impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Wellington Firebirds are favorites due to their strong home record and dominant head-to-head record against Northern Knights. They have won the last four encounters and know the Basin Reserve conditions well. Their balanced squad with experienced batters and disciplined bowlers gives them an edge. Although they suffered a heavy loss recently, they have the depth and quality to bounce back strongly. Northern Knights’ struggles at this venue further tilt the balance in Wellington’s favor.
Pitch Report
Basin Reserve traditionally supports seamers early due to grassy surfaces and helpful swing conditions. Batters who survive the initial overs can score freely once set. The average first-innings score is around 233 runs. Teams batting first have had success recently. A total above 250 is considered competitive here.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18–22°C |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Rain | Slight Chance |
| Wind | Moderate Breeze |
Clear conditions expected with minimal rain interruption.
Broadcast Details
The match will be live-streamed on Fancode. Fans can also follow live scores and commentary through official cricket websites and sports news portals.
Toss Prediction
Given the recent trend at Basin Reserve, teams may prefer batting first to capitalize on favorable early conditions.
Predicted Toss Winner: Northern Knights
Score Prediction
If Wellington Bat First: 255+
If Northern Knights Bat First: 240+
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Nick Kelly and Robert O’Donnell are expected to be top run-scorers. Nathan Smith and Scott Kuggeleijn could influence the game as all-rounders. Liam Dudding and Tim Pringle are likely to lead the wicket charts.
Match Prediction
Wellington Firebirds hold the upper hand due to home advantage, better recent head-to-head results, and squad balance.
Our Prediction: Wellington Firebirds 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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