The New Zealand Cricket Women’s One Day Competition, Hallyburton Johnstone Shield – the premier domestic tournament in the shorter format is up and running. In match no 29, Auckland Hearts will bout against the Canterbury Magicians at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
The Hearts currently are placed on the third spot in the points table after they made a decent comeback after losing three consecutive games. The counterpart, Magicians, have bagged 14 points from 9 games and are seeded 4th in the tally. The Hearts got the better of the same opponent in their most recent game, on the 22nd of February 2025.
Squads:
Auckland Hearts
Saachi Shahri, Cate Pedersen, Maddy Green, Lauren Down, Isabella Gaze, Bella Armstrong, Josie Penfold, Anika Todd, Amie Hucker, Fran Jonas, Bree Illing, Prue Catton
Canterbury Magicians
Kate Anderson, Sarah Asmussen, Missy Banks, Nat Cox, Jodie Dean, Kate Ebrahim, Abigale Gerken, Laura Hughes, Izzy Sharp, Libby Stead, Gabby Sullivan, Jess Simmons
Players to watch out:
Maddy Green
Skipper Maddy Green has been the sensational performer in the tournament, topping the run charts with 569 runs at an impressive average that nears 71. The batter has showcased her technical class with the highest score of 125. Her consistency and clever leadership have played an instrumental role in her team’s campaign.
Fran Jonas
Jonas is one of players to watch out for, with her ability to misguide batters with precision and discipline. The slow left-arm orthodox has scalped 10 wickets in 7 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 4.30. Her misery bowling and variations make her a key cog in the attack.
Kate Anderson
Anderson has made a solid impact as an all-rounder, contributing both with the bat and ball. She has scored 200 runs in 7 innings, proving to be a reliable shoulder in the team order. Her ability to up the ante when needed adds immense depth to the batting spree.
Sarah Asmussen
Asmussen has been a key asset, marking her presence with 10 wickets in 8 appearances. The 24-year-old has showcased her ability to pluck at crucial junctures, including a brilliant four-fer. Her consistency and control make her a vital part of the bowling attack. The right-arm leg break will be looking to add to her tally and make an impact in the upcoming game.
Pitch:
At this venue, teams winning the toss often opt to bowl first to capitalize on the early movement for bowlers. The pitch usually provides decent bounce and movement for pacers in the initial overs, helping them apply pressure and limit the opposition’s scoring. As the match progresses, the surface becomes more favourable for batters, making run-chases relatively easier.
Weather:
It is expected to be rainy in Christchurch with 20% chances of precipitation. The temperature is expected to be around 17 degrees Celsius, with winds blowing at 14km/hr and humidity at 81%.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Izzy Sharp, Isabella Gaze, Maddy Green, Kate Anderson, Lauren Down, Saachi Shahri, Kate Ebrahim, Sarah Asmussen, Fran Jonas, Gabby Sullivan, Bree Illing
Match details:
Date – February 23, 2025
Time – 3:00 AM IST
Venue – Hagley Oval, Christchurch
Broadcast – Catch the action live on New Zealand Cricket’s YouTube channel.
