WELL vs AUCK Match Analysis
The 4th Match of the Super Smash 2025 brings Wellington and Auckland face-to-face at the iconic Basin Reserve, Wellington, on December 29. Scheduled as a day fixture with a 9:25 AM BDT start, this T20 encounter takes place at a crucial early stage of the tournament, where momentum is still fragile.
Wellington entered this contest after a difficult outing against Central Districts, where their chase unraveled well short of the target. Despite possessing a core linked to Blackcaps experience, the team continues to juggle availability and consistency.
Auckland, on the other hand, is still waiting for a definitive result after their opening match ended with no result against Northern Districts. Their batting firepower was evident in the 201-run effort, but unanswered questions remain around execution under pressure.
Wellington vs Auckland Team Preview & Squads
Wellington
Nick Kelly leads WELL with a calm, methodical captaincy style that emphasizes structure over flair. As captain, Kelly’s responsibility goes beyond runs; he is central to holding together a lineup affected by player rotation. His leadership will be tested again after the previous loss.
WELL batting depth shows promise but lacks consistency. Players like Peter Younghusband and Tim Robinson provide intent at the top, while middle-order stability depends heavily on partnerships rather than individual dominance. The absence of sustained contributions was evident in their last match’s collapse.
The bowling attack remains Wellington’s strongest suit. Logan van Beek anchors the all-round department with both control and aggression, supported by Michael Snedden’s experience. The presence of multiple seam options allows WELL flexibility depending on conditions.
In their previous match against Central Districts, Wellington struggled while chasing 189 and were bowled out for 142 in 17.5 overs. The inability to counter disciplined bowling exposed their middle-order vulnerability. That defeat puts immediate pressure on execution rather than experimentation.
Wellington Squads
Wellington
Liam Dudding, Nick Greenwood, James Hartshorn, Nick Kelly (C), Callum McLachlan (wk), Samuel Morgan, Sam Mycock, Amogh Paranjpe, Tim Robinson, Gareth Severin, Michael Snedden, Jesse Tashkoff, Logan van Beek, Peter Younghusband, Yahya Zeb.
Auckland
Sean Solia captains AUCK with a proactive, all-rounder’s mindset. His dual role provides balance, especially in T20 scenarios where adaptability often outweighs rigid planning. Solia’s leadership has historically aligned with Auckland’s winning culture.
AUCK batting lineup is deep and aggressive. Bevon Jacobs adds explosiveness, while Cam Fletcher and Dale Phillips bring experience and flexibility. However, the team has a known tendency toward top-order collapses when early wickets fall.
The bowling unit features variety and depth. Ben Lister leads the pace attack, complemented by support options like Jock McKenzie and Jordan Sussex. Solia himself strengthens the all-round combination, allowing AUCK to rotate bowlers without losing control.
Their previous match against Northern Districts ended in a no result, but Auckland had already posted an imposing 201/8. While the abandoned outcome denied them points, it reaffirmed their batting potential. Consistency across all phases remains their next challenge.
Auckland Squads
Auckland
Sid Dixit, Cam Fletcher (wk), Matt Gibson, Rohit Gulati, Bevon Jacobs, Harrish Kannan, Simon Keene, Ben Lister, Jock McKenzie, Angus Olliver, Dale Phillips, Samrath Singh, Sean Solia (C), Lachie Stackpole, Jordan Sussex.
Match Details | |
|---|---|
Match | Wellington vs Auckland | 4th Match | Super Smash 2025-26 |
Date | 29/12/2025 (Day) |
Time | BDT: 9:25 AM / PKT: 8:25 AM / INR: 8:55 AM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Basin Reserve, Wellington |
Recent performance | Wellington – L W W A L |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the WELL vs AUCK Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
WELL vs AUCK Outfield Report
Basin Reserve, Wellington
The Basin Reserve surface is traditionally known for offering something to everyone, though exact pitch behavior for this match remains unspecified. Early movement could assist seamers, while set batters may enjoy consistent bounce later in the innings. Shot selection will be crucial during the powerplay.
Weather conditions and temperature details are not officially provided. As this is a day match, the dew factor is expected to be minimal, reducing chasing advantages. Any cloud cover could influence swing early on.
Fielding will play a decisive role, especially in the powerplay overs. Cutting off singles and enforcing pressure could expose batting weaknesses on both sides. Sharp inner-circle fielding may tilt momentum quickly.
Wellington vs Auckland Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches
In the last five T20 meetings, Auckland have won three matches, Wellington have won one, and one encounter was abandoned. The trend slightly favors AUCK, particularly in pressure situations.
WELL vs AUCK Prediction
Event | Wellington | Auckland |
|---|---|---|
Toss Winner | – | Auckland |
Player of the Match | – | Bevon Jacobs |
Top Run Scorer | Peter Younghusband | Bevon Jacobs |
Top Wicket Taker | Michael Snedden | Ben Lister |
Most Sixes | Peter Younghusband | Bevon Jacobs |
Predicted Score | 165+ | 170+ |
Win Probability | 48% | 52% |
According to cricket analysts, Auckland has a 52% chance of Winning.
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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