Wellington vs Auckland, 4th Match

Wellington and Auckland clash in the 4th match of the Super Smash 2025-26 at the Basin Reserve, a venue known for its balanced conditions favoring both batsmen and bowlers. Wellington has entered this season with a mixed run of form, showing resilience in death overs but occasionally struggling against quality spin bowling. On the other hand, Auckland has been more consistent, particularly with their top order contributing heavily to strong starts in most games. Historically, these teams have had a tight rivalry in T20 formats, with Auckland edging slightly ahead in wins over the last two seasons. Key players from Wellington include their dynamic all-rounder and death over specialist, whose ability to accelerate the innings will be vital. Meanwhile, Auckland's strength lies in their experienced batting lineup, featuring a couple of big-hitters and a pace attack that has been successful at containing runs in powerplay overs. Strategy-wise, Wellington will look to capitalize on home advantage, exploiting swing in early overs and banking on middle-over spinners to apply pressure. Auckland will aim to maintain their aggressive batting with minimal risks and deploy their seasoned bowlers in crucial phases, particularly targeting early wickets. Given the form and conditions, Auckland enjoys a marginal advantage, but a strong showing by Wellington, especially in bowling, could turn the game.

Winning Probability: Wellington 47%, Auckland 53%

If Wellington bats first, they are likely to post in the range of 160-170 runs, benefiting from the predictable bounce and early movement at Basin Reserve. Their middle order has shown the capability to stabilize and accelerate as needed. Conversely, if Auckland bats first, they could aim for a slightly higher total around 165-175 runs due to their powerful top order and ability to exploit powerplay conditions. The pitch typically offers some assistance to bowlers early on, so a cautious start followed by aggressive hitting in the middle and death overs will be key for both teams to maximize their scoring potential.

The Basin Reserve pitch usually offers an even contest between bat and ball. Historically, the average first innings score stands around 165-170 runs, with successful chases hovering near 52%. The wicket tends to provide early seamers some swing and seam movement, while spinners come into play during the middle overs. Weather on match day is expected to be partly cloudy with mild winds, which could assist bowlers slightly. The ground’s record shows the best batsman performances by Auckland’s opening batsman who averages over 45 here, while Wellington's premier fast bowler holds the best bowling figures at this venue with a 4-wicket haul. Their performances at Basin Reserve underline their ability to influence matches decisively.

Total Matches	Wellington Wins	Auckland Wins
20	9	11

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Wellington	W, L, L, W, L
Auckland	W, W, L, W, W

Wellington:

Luke Farrell – The all-rounder has scored quickfire 30+ runs in recent games and chipped in with crucial wickets during middle overs.

Matt Henry – His ability to swing the ball early and contain runs in the powerplay makes him a key threat this match.

Jesse Ryder – A seasoned campaigner whose experience at the Basin Reserve and explosive batting can change the game within overs.

Auckland:

Martin Crowe – The opener continues to accumulate runs with a high average, providing stability at the top of the order.

James Neesham – Effective all-round displays with both bat and ball have made him a vital component in Auckland’s lineup.

Logan van Beek – His variations and accuracy in death overs have yielded match-winning spells in recent outings.