AUCK vs CD Match Prediction & Analysis | Shriram Online Book
Shriram Online Book Match 17 of the Ford Trophy takes place at Eden Park this Thursday, with Auckland Aces squaring off against Central Stags. Auckland have dominated the standings with 18 points from five matches, while the Stags are stuck near the bottom with just 7 points. Having won their last two meetings with the Stags and being in top form, Auckland are well-placed to come out on top again.
TEAMS PREVIEW Shriram Online Book
Auckland Aces Preview
Auckland Aces have had a strong start to the Ford Trophy, winning four out of their five matches. Their only loss came against Wellington, but they quickly recovered with a three-game winning streak. Now, as the tournament moves into its second phase, Auckland will be aiming to keep that winning run going.
Middle-order batter Michael Sclanders has been a standout performer for the Aces, collecting 217 runs in five innings wile averaging an impressive 54.25. William O’Donnell has also been consistent, scoring 194 runs at an average of 39. Cam Fletcher has provided valuable support with the bat, adding 121 runs to the team’s total.
Meanwhile, James Neesham has been the leading bowler, taking 8 wickets in four innings at an economical rate of 3.25. Although Lockie Ferguson is unavailable, the Aces have other capable bowlers like Simon Keene, Louis Delport, and Adithya Ashok who are ready to step up.
Auckland Aces Predicted Playing XI:
Sean Solia, Finn Allen (c), William O’Donnell, Michael Sclanders, Cam Fletcher (wk), James Neesham, Simon Keene, Bevon Jacobs, Adithya Ashok, Louis Delport, Danru Ferns
Auckland Aces Key Players From Previous Game Of The Ford Trophy, 2024-25
Central Stags Preview
Central Stags are going through a challenging stretch this season, with three losses against just one victory. While they’ve shown glimpses of promise, the team hasn’t quite managed to string together consistent wins. The upcoming phase of the season presents an opportunity for the Stags to reset and reclaim their form.
Curtis Heaphy stands out as their most promising batter, topping the batting charts with 276 runs in five innings and an impressive average of 69. Brad Schmulian has also been solid, contributing 246 runs over five matches, and will look to stabilize the batting lineup. Jack Boyle, who’s scored 238 runs in five appearances, adds another layer of strength to the middle order and could deliver crucial runs when needed.
In terms of bowling, Blair Tickner has proven reliable, claiming 11 wickets in four outings while maintaining an economy rate of 5.50. Raymond Toole and Jayden Lennox have each picked up six wickets so far, making them strong contenders to influence the outcome of the game.
Central Stags Predicted Playing XI:
Brad Schmulian, Curtis Heaphy, Jack Boyle, Dane Cleaver (wk), Tom Bruce, Josh Clarkson, William Clark, Brett Randell, Blair Tickner, Jayden Lennox (c), Raymond Toole
Central Stags Key Players From Previous Game Of The Ford Trophy, 2024-25
PITCH AND WEATHER CONDITIONS Shriram Online Book
Weather Conditions
Eden Park, Auckland, is known for its shorter boundaries and high-scoring games. The pitch tends to favor batsmen with consistent bounce and pace, allowing for aggressive stroke play. Spinners may find some assistance as the game progresses, especially if the surface dries out. Fast bowlers can exploit early movement with the new ball. Teams often aim for 300+ in 50 overs, making it a batters’ paradise with occasional opportunities for bowlers.
Auckland will see cloudy and breezy weather on the day of the game. However, there’s no threat of rain and we should get a full match.
AUCK vs CD Pitch Report Shriram Online Book
The average score batting first in ODIs at Eden Park is just 222. However, we are expecting a batting-friendly surface here and the team batting first will be eyeing a score of around 280-300 runs.
Toss: To Bowl
Eden Park usually favors the team batting second. 43 of the 76 ODIs played here have been won by the side chasing. Going by these records, we reckon both teams will look to field first here.
AUCK vs CD
Winning Prediction Shriram Online Book
Auckland Aces will be looking to stay at the top as they kick off the next phase of the Ford Trophy. They’ve had the upper hand over most teams this season, and with the Central Stags dealing with ups and downs, the Aces seem poised for another win. While the Stags’ batters have flashed potential, their bowlers haven’t delivered consistently, often letting them down when it matters most. Their inability to gel as a cohesive team could give Auckland the edge they need.
Auckland Aces are our picks for the winners of this game.
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