Wellington vs Canterbury Match Prediction | Super Smash 2025-26 | 23rd Match | Jan 19 – Who will win today’s match between WELL vs CANT?

WELL vs CANT Match Analysis

The 23rd match of Super Smash 2026 at Wellington’s Basin Reserve promises a classic early-season T20 clash, with both sides eager to consolidate standings. With a morning start at 9:25 AM BDT, conditions and toss strategy will be crucial in this breezy, often unpredictable Wellington environment.

Wellington enter this fixture on a five-match losing streak, having narrowly fallen to Otago by 5 wickets in their last encounter. Tom Blundell’s leadership and batting form will be key, though the team must find early momentum to counter Canterbury’s confidence and break the current slump.

Canterbury, despite a recent 9-wicket defeat to Auckland, have been in strong overall form this season. Cole McConchie leads a balanced squad with Leo Carter anchoring the batting, and their depth in both seam and spin gives them options to exploit Wellington’s struggling lineup. Confidence from earlier wins could offset the psychological sting of their last loss.

WELL vs CANT Match Details

Basin Reserve Pitch Report

The Basin Reserve traditionally offers significant assistance to fast bowlers early, with seam, swing, and extra bounce dominating the first half of the innings. Batters often struggle against disciplined pacers initially, though the surface tends to flatten out, making the second half more rewarding. Spinners receive minimal help, and the Wellington wind can influence trajectory and field placements, emphasizing the toss’s strategic importance.

Weather Report

Sunday’s forecast predicts cool, cloudy, and breezy conditions, with a minor chance of patchy rain. The breeze will particularly aid seamers and influence the ball’s swing, potentially making chasing more challenging. Minimal dew means fielding sides can expect consistent grip throughout, favoring early bowlers in setting or defending totals.

WELL vs CANT Head-to-Head Records

Wellington vs Canterbury Team Preview & Squads

Wellington

Captain Tom Blundell remains the fulcrum of Wellington’s lineup, combining tactical insight with steady batting, crucial for navigating Basin Reserve’s early seam-friendly conditions.

Batting largely depends on Blundell and Nick Kelly, with contributions from Callum McLachlan and Samuel Morgan, though consistency has been a concern. Early starts against Canterbury’s seam attack will test their technique and shot selection.

Bowling is led by James Hartshorn and Logan van Beek, with Jesse Tashkoff providing all-round flexibility. Van Beek’s ability to strike early in the powerplay could swing momentum, while Tashkoff’s experience allows captaincy adjustments in middle overs.

Wellington Squads

Liam Dudding, Nick Greenwood, James Hartshorn, Nick Kelly, Callum McLachlan, Samuel Morgan, Sam Mycock, Amogh Paranjpe, Tim Robinson, Gareth Severin, Michael Snedden, Jesse Tashkoff, Logan van Beek, Peter Younghusband, Yahya Zeb, Tom Blundell(C)

Canterbury

Cole McConchie’s leadership emphasizes discipline and strategic flexibility, enabling smart bowling changes in Wellington’s tricky conditions. His all-round capabilities also provide batting depth and finishing power when needed.

Batting is anchored by Leo Carter, while Chad Bowes and Matt Boyle offer steady hand support. The lineup has the balance to recover quickly from setbacks, though the last-match hammering by Auckland highlights vulnerability against early strike bowling.

Bowling strength comes from McConchie and Henry Shipley, with Ish Sodhi’s spin used sparingly but effectively in middle overs. LLB Harper provides all-round cover, essential for stabilizing innings or breaking partnerships in pressure moments.

Canterbury Squads

Chad Bowes, Matt Boyle, Leo Carter, Jesse Frew, Scott Janett, Rhys Mariu, Cole McConchie(C), Angus Mckenzie, Cam Paul, Henry Shipley, Ish Sodhi, Michael Rae, Michael Rippon, Matt Rowe, Fraser Sheat

WELL vs CANT Prediction

WELL vs CANT Winning Prediction

Wellington’s struggle for momentum collides with Canterbury’s calculated aggression and depth. Early pacers will define the opening phase, with Blundell and Hartshorn tasked to mitigate swing and bounce. Canterbury’s batting depth, led by Carter, ensures recovery potential, while McConchie’s tactical acumen targets Wellington’s vulnerabilities. Expect a contest where seamer dominance meets measured chasing strategies.

According to the above cricket analytical data, Canterbury have a 54% chance of winning.

FAQ: Super Smash 2026 23rd Match

What time does the Wellington vs Canterbury match start?
The match starts at 9:25 AM BDT on January 19, 2026.

Who is the predicted toss winner for the WELL vs CANT match?
Canterbury is predicted to win the toss.

Where can I watch the Wellington vs Canterbury live stream?
You can watch the live stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH).