Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds Preview & Prediction

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THE FACTS

When is Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds taking place? Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds will take place on Friday 26^th November, 2021 at 05:40 (UK)

Where is Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds taking place? Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds will take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch

What is the expected weather for Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds? 21-18c with heavy cloud and light winds, but dry throughout

Where can I get tickets for Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds? Click here to buy tickets for Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds

What TV channel is Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds on in the UK? Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds will be televised live on BT Sport

Where can I stream Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds? BT Sport subscribers can stream Canterbury Kings vs Wellington Firebirds live on the BT Sport Player & app

THE TEAM NEWS

CANTERBURY KINGS

• Canterbury Kings will be looking to go one better than they did last time round and win only their second Super Smash trophy, ending their current status as the least successful team in the competition since its formation.
• The Kings will have to make do without Daryl Mitchell, with the batter on international duty and captain Cole McConchie will likely have to play a key role with both bat and ball during this match, as will fast bowler Matt Henry.

WELLINGTON FIREBIRDS

• Wellington Firebirds are out to defend their Super Smash title that they won back in February, beating their opponents here in the final by five wickets in a thrilling encounter.
• Devon Conway was the star of that final with 93 not out from 63 balls, but the New Zealand international is expected to miss out here with a broken hand suffered at the recently concluded T20 World Cup.

THE PREDICTION

A rematch of the most recent Super Smash final is the ideal way to get this latest edition of the tournament underway, with Canterbury Kings boasting home advantage and looking to send a message to Wellington Firebirds. Whilst early wickets will be crucial for McConchie’s men, particularly Finn Allen at the top of the order, both Conway and Tom Blundell represent huge absentees for Wellington and this may be reflected within their batting depth. With that in mind, the smart play is to back Canterbury Kings to draw first blood and record victory in this opening match.