The Ford Trophy one-day fixture between Wellington Firebirds and Northern Districts will be played at the historic Basin Reserve, Wellington 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 crucial stage of New Zealand’s premier 50-over competition. With the Basin Reserve offering unique conditions and tactical nuance, both sides will be keen to adapt quickly.
Form Guide
Wellington Firebirds
Wellington Firebirds have shown flashes of quality throughout the Ford Trophy, particularly when their top order has laid solid foundations. Familiarity with Basin Reserve conditions often allows them to control tempo effectively.
- Home conditions suit their structured bowling attack.
- Top order capable of batting deep.
- Need greater consistency through the middle overs.
Northern Districts
Northern Districts arrive as a competitive and well-balanced one-day side, built around aggressive batting and a varied bowling unit. Their ability to accelerate at key moments has been a hallmark of recent performances.
- Dynamic batting line-up with power options.
- Bowling attack offers pace and spin variety.
- High-energy fielding adds pressure on opponents.
Key Players
Wellington Firebirds
- Nick Kelly – A composed opener capable of anchoring long innings.
- Rachin Ravindra – A high-class all-rounder offering balance and control.
- Logan van Beek – A key bowler who can contribute vital lower-order runs.
Northern Districts
- Jeet Raval – An experienced top-order batter well suited to one-day cricket.
- Tim Seifert – An aggressive batter capable of quick momentum shifts.
- Scott Kuggeleijn – A powerful all-rounder with impact potential in both disciplines.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Basin Reserve is traditionally known for its wind-influenced conditions and subtle movement for seamers, particularly early in the innings. Batters who show patience and strong defensive technique are often rewarded as the pitch settles. Spinners tend to play a holding role rather than dominating. Weather in Wellington is expected to be cool and dry, with light winds possible.
Wellington Firebirds vs Northern Districts – Prediction
This Ford Trophy encounter looks finely balanced. Wellington Firebirds will look to maximise home advantage, particularly if Nick Kelly bats deep and Logan van Beek exploits movement with the ball. Northern Districts, however, may hold a slight edge through their greater batting firepower, especially if Tim Seifert provides early impetus and Scott Kuggeleijn influences key moments. Expect a competitive contest, with Northern Districts marginal favourites.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Rachin Ravindra – High-value all-round fantasy option.
- Tim Seifert – Explosive batting upside.
- Logan van Beek – Consistent contributions with bat and ball.
