It will be the battle of the North Island neighbours when the Auckland Aces, HRV Cup runners up, host the one-day defending champions the Northern Knights for the domestic one-day title this Sunday.
The last time the two teams squared off was during the preliminary finals last weekend. The Aces cruised to an emphatic victory over the Knights by eight wickets to secure a home final, but that was the only time the Aces have been victorious against their Northern counterparts this season.
The Knights won both round robin games against the Aces, winning the toss and batting second each time. If they win the toss on Sunday, it would not be a surprise to see the Knights bowl first at Colin Maiden Park.
Both the Auckland Aces and Northern Knights have a strong line up of talented players who can make or break a game.
Head to Head Match Ups
Batsmen
Rising star v International
Northern Knights youngster Kane Williamson is out to prove he deserves a BLACKCAPS call-up. The youngster is a clear leader in the Mitre 10 MVP one-day table, and has shown his maturity with the bat in recent games, delivering match winning performances for the Knights in their run up to the final. Williamson is one of only two players to make over 500 runs in the competition this year, including two centuries and four half centuries.
Auckland Aces international import Ravi Bopara has scored 434 runs during the 2009/10 one-day season with a top score of 102. The English international has been a valuable asset for the Aces, and has played a key role in ensuring they finished top of the table and booked a home final berth.
Bowlers
Who’s got the pace?
Northern Knights pace bowler Bradley Scott has been a stand out performer for the Knights during this one-day season. He has taken 11 wickets with an economy rate of 4.46. His best bowling figures are 3-40 in the 50 over game and it is expected the 30 year old left-armer will play a key role against the Aces this weekend.
Spearheading the Aces’ bowling attack is left arm medium pacer Michael Bates. The 26 year old took three wickets in the HRV Cup final and will be looking to repeat his performance against the Knights. This season he has taken 14 scalps, one of only four to have done so, with a healthy economy rate of 4.75. His best bowling figures for the 2009/10 one-day competition so far have been 4-27.
Fielders
Captain v Captain
Northern Knights Captain James Marshall is quick on his feet in the field and a strong mid-order batsman. Since his New Zealand domestic debut in 1997/1998 Marshall has taken 89 catches. Whilst he has not been in vintage form with the bat, his presence and agility in the field could make the difference in a tight game on Sunday.
Auckland Aces Captain and BLACKCAPS backup wicketkeeper Gareth Hopkins has the ability to take a spectacular diving catch and bat powerfully in the middle order. His leadership skills have developed during his first season as captain, and his positive energy in the field and with the bat will be crucial in ensuring his team deliver when it really counts.
Domestic One-Day Final
Auckland Aces v Northern Knights
Date/time: Sunday 21st February, 11am
Venue: Colin Maiden Park
Gates open: 10am
Tickets
Adults: $15
Children (5-15): $5
Under 5's: Free
Family pass (2 adults, 2 children): $35
