OTAGO vs ND Match Analysis
University Oval in Dunedin sets the stage for this high-stakes 22nd Match of the Super Smash 2025-26, where Otago and Northern Districts clash in a cool morning T20 encounter that could redefine early tournament momentum. Timing and venue conditions make this a strategic tussle.
Otago enters this contest with a mixed record of T L W L W, buoyed by their last victory over Wellington where Jacob Cumming’s 45-run cameo guided them home. The team’s batting remains a concern, but a confident finish in their previous match could boost morale.
Northern Districts carry strong form of L T W W W, and their last-match heroics, spearheaded by Katene Clarke’s unbeaten 60, show a batting line capable of chasing challenging totals. Their balance between pace and spin adds tactical flexibility against Otago’s variable lineup.
OTAGO vs ND Match Details
Match | Otago vs Northern Districts | 22nd Match | Super Smash 2025-26 |
Date | 18/01/2026 (Sunday) |
Time | BDT 9:25 AM / PKT 8:25 AM / INR 8:55 AM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | University Oval, Dunedin |
Recent performance | Otago – T L W L W |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
University Oval Pitch Report
University Oval, Dunedin
The Dunedin surface traditionally offers assistance to pacers early on, with consistent bounce and occasional seam movement. Batsmen who rotate strike and exploit short boundaries can accelerate scoring after the initial overs. Recent matches suggest totals above 160 are competitive, though early wickets can tilt the game toward bowlers.
Weather Report
Matchday conditions are expected to be cool and mostly clear, following patchy rain in preceding days. Minimal dew is likely, so bowlers, particularly pacers, should enjoy consistent grip, and batting conditions will remain steady without undue moisture affecting shot-making in the evening.
OTAGO vs ND Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 33 |
OTAGO Won | 14 |
ND Won | 18 |
Tied | 1 |
No Result | 3 |
First-ever Fixture | January 10, 2007 |
Most-recent Fixture | January 4, 2026 |
OTAGO vs ND Team Preview & Squads
Otago
Captain Max Chu brings tactical clarity and aggression at the top, often dictating early innings tempo with calculated risk-taking. The batting backbone relies heavily on Jacob Cumming, whose stroke play can anchor innings and accelerate in the death overs. With Jack Boyle expected to lead scoring today, their top-order strategy will be critical.
The batting line-up, led by Jacob Cumming, relies on stabilizing early starts and accelerating toward the end. Jack Boyle is expected to contribute significantly, providing depth and the potential for finishing innings with quick boundaries. The mix of youth and experience offers flexibility, but consistency under pressure remains a key question.
Otago’s bowling is paced by Ben Lockrose, a wicket-taking seam option capable of exploiting the initial swing at Dunedin. All-rounder Jake Gibson adds depth in both batting and bowling, giving the team tactical versatility during middle overs. Their death bowling, however, may face challenges against ND’s explosive hitters.
Otago Squad
Otago Squad
Matt Bacon, Jack Boyle, Max Chu, Mason Clarke, Jacob Cumming, Danru Ferns, Luke Georgeson, Jake Gibson, Andrew Hazeldine, Llew Johnson, Troy Johnson, Ben Lockrose, Jarrod McKay, Thorn Parkes, Jamal Todd
Northern Districts
Robert O’Donnell’s leadership blends stability with aggression, providing structure for a side peaking with confidence from recent wins. Their batting, led by Katene Clarke, can navigate both chase and set scenarios, while middle-order flexibility ensures adaptability under pressure. Clarke’s last-match heroics make him the focal point for today.
The batting strength hinges on Katene Clarke, whose last-match unbeaten 60 underscores his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when required. The middle-order, featuring contributions from Kristian Clarke and Jeet Raval, adds flexibility to navigate both high-pressure chases and setting defendable totals.
Bowling options, spearheaded by Matthew Fisher and supplemented by Scott Kuggeleijn, offer a balanced attack across pace and variations. Mitchell Santner’s all-round capabilities provide additional strategic options, particularly in controlling middle overs and maintaining economy rates, making ND a potent unit.
Northern Districts Squad
Northern Districts Squad
Xavier Bell, Josh Brown, Joe Carter, Katene Clarke, Kristian Clarke, Henry Cooper, Matthew Fisher, Zak Gibson, Brett Hampton, Scott Kuggeleijn, Robbie O’Donnell, Ben Pomare, Bharat Popli, Tim Pringle, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner
OTAGO vs ND Prediction
Event | Otago | Northern Districts |
Toss Winner | Otago | |
Player of the Match | Katene Clarke | |
Top Run Scorer | Jack Boyle | Katene Clarke |
Top Wicket Taker | Ben Lockrose | Scott Kuggeleijn |
Most Sixes | Max Chu | Brett Hampton |
Predicted Score | 170+ | 180+ |
Win Probability | 49% | 51% |
OTAGO vs ND Winning Prediction
This clash will likely see Otago’s tactical adjustments and last-match finishing strength tested against Northern Districts’ momentum and batting firepower. Expect early bowling contests to shape scoring patterns, while middle-order battles and all-round contributions from Santner and Gibson could decide the outcome in the final overs. Northern Districts’ consistent chasing form and Clarke’s recent heroics provide them a marginal advantage over Otago’s mixed performance.
According to the above cricket analytical data, Northern Districts have a 51% chance of winning.
FAQ: Super Smash 2026 Match 22
Who is the captain of Otago for this match?
Max Chu is the captain of Otago.
At which stadium is the Otago vs Northern Districts match scheduled?
The match is at University Oval, Dunedin.
What are the options to stream the 22nd Match of Super Smash 2025‑26 online?
Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH).
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
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