The Ford Trophy one-day encounter between Otago Volts and Auckland Aces will be played at Sir John Davies Oval, Queenstown on 16 February. The match is scheduled to begin at 03:00 IST on 17 February, converted from a 21:30 UK start time, and comes at a pivotal stage of New Zealand’s premier 50-over competition. With Queenstown offering picturesque surroundings and generally true batting conditions, both sides will be keen to capitalise on scoring opportunities.
Form Guide
Otago Volts
Otago Volts have shown encouraging signs in the Ford Trophy, particularly when their top order has provided a solid platform. Their bowling unit relies on discipline and smart use of conditions rather than outright pace.
- Top order capable of building competitive one-day totals.
- Bowling attack focused on control and variations.
- Fielding intensity key to applying pressure.
Auckland Aces
Auckland Aces remain one of the strongest one-day sides in the competition, boasting depth in both batting and bowling. Their ability to accelerate through the middle and death overs often separates them from opponents.
- Batting line-up packed with power and experience.
- Bowling unit offers pace, swing, and accuracy.
- Comfortable chasing or setting targets.
Key Players
Otago Volts
- Dean Foxcroft – A composed top-order batter capable of anchoring innings.
- Hamish Rutherford – An experienced campaigner who provides stability at the top.
- Jacob Duffy – A skilful seamer effective with the new ball.
Auckland Aces
- Finn Allen – An explosive opener capable of changing games quickly.
- Mark Chapman – A versatile middle-order batter well suited to one-day cricket.
- Lockie Ferguson – A high-pace bowler who brings wicket-taking threat.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Sir John Davies Oval generally provides a good one-day surface with even bounce and value for shots, particularly once batters are set. Seamers can extract some movement early, especially under lights, while spinners tend to rely on accuracy and changes of pace rather than sharp turn. Weather conditions in Queenstown are expected to be cool and clear, ideal for uninterrupted play.
Otago Volts vs Auckland Aces – Prediction
This Ford Trophy fixture shapes up as a competitive contest, but Auckland Aces may hold a slight edge due to greater batting firepower. If Finn Allen provides early momentum and Lockie Ferguson strikes at key moments, Auckland should be well placed to control proceedings. Otago Volts will look to counter through stability from Dean Foxcroft and disciplined bowling from Jacob Duffy, but consistency across 50 overs will be crucial.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Finn Allen – High-upside opener on a true surface.
- Dean Foxcroft – Reliable top-order run scorer.
- Lockie Ferguson – Wicket-taking threat throughout the innings.
