Auckland Aces vs Northern Knights Tips - Aces to remain winless

In their 26 matches against each other the Auckland Aces and Northern Knights had level at 13 wins apiece.

Last season the Northern Knights did the double on the Auckland Aces. Their last match ended in a three wicket win for the Knights at the Eden Park Outer Oval.

Auckland Aces sit bottom of the Super Smash table after losing their opening five matches. They will need a dramatic turnaround if they are to get anywhere near the playoffs.

In their last match, the Aces suffered a six-run defeat to the Canterbury Kings at Hagley Oval. The Kings scored 154 in their 20 overs, a score that was more than attainable for the Aces.

William O’Donnell (50) and Sean Solia (55) put the Aces on track for victory but once they fell, the Auckland side just couldn’t get over the line. They ended on 148-5 after 20 overs.

The Auckland Aces will be concerned about the form of internationals, Martin Guptill and Glenn Phillips. They will be hoping their two stars can find form in the second half of the season.

The Northern Knights are second from bottom with only one win in the Super Smash from six matches. 

The Knights lost their last match to the Canterbury Kings by six wickets at the Hagley Oval. Jeet Raval top scored with 70 runs as the Knights posted a total of 150 in their allotted overs.

Frederick Walker got the Knights off to a perfect start with the ball, taking 3-20 in his four overs. The Kings were 15-3 and the Knights looked on their way to victory.

Unfortunately the Northern Knights could not keep that pressure on as a 133-run fifth wicket partnership saw the Kings win with an over remaining.

The Northern Knights will have a Tim Southee and Trent Boult available for this match which should make them a lot stronger. Along with Mitchell Santner the Knights now have a core of international stars.

It is on the batting front where they need to improve. Kane Williamson is not yet available for selection.