• Match: Central Stags vs Northern Brave, 6th Match, Super Smash 2023-24
• Date and Time: December 27, 03:30 am GMT/ 08:30 am IST / 04:00 pm local time
• Venue: Fitzherbert Park, Palmerston North

Central Stags: Central Stags aim to retaliate as they face Northern Brave in their upcoming encounter, seeking redemption from their prior clash. In their initial match, Brave secured a convincing 55-run victory.

Northern Brave: Brave set the tone by batting first and posted a formidable total of 196-9 in 20 overs, propelled by Jeet Raval’s commanding 52 and Tim Seifert’s impactful 43. Their batting prowess laid the groundwork before an impressive display by the bowlers, effectively restricting the Stags to a mere 141, sealing Brave’s triumph.

Central Stags: Dane Cleaver (C & WK), Jack Boyle, Bayley Wiggins/Tom Bruce, Curtis Heaphy, William Clark, Doug Bracewell, Bevan Small, Joey Field, Ajaz Patel, Blair Tickner, Jayden Lennox.

Northern Brave: Jeet Raval (Captain), Joe Walker, Katene Clarke, Joe Carter, Mitchell Santner, Brett Hampton, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Southee, Tim Pringle, Neil Wagner, Matthew Fisher.

Northern Brave enter as favorites, boasting a formidable lineup filled with several international stars, showcasing strength in both batting and bowling. Their earlier victory against Central Stags further solidifies their position. Predictions lean towards Northern Brave to sustain their winning momentum and secure another victory against Central Stags.

Both captains are likely to prefer bowling first, aiming to capitalize on the early conditions that might favor the bowlers. This strategy allows them to take advantage of any assistance the pitch or weather might offer in the initial stages of the match.

Early on, the pitch is expected to provide assistance to the bowlers with some sideways movement, favoring seamers. As the ball softens, spinners are likely to come into play, further challenging the batters. To score runs effectively, batsmen will need to display their top form and adapt to the changing conditions throughout the game.

The match day might experience rain, leading to overcast conditions that could aid bowlers with added movement. This scenario might result in a potentially shortened game, adding an element of uncertainty to the match duration.

• Stadium: Fitzherbert Park
• City: Palmerston North
• Hosts to: Central Districts