The ACES are gearing up for a massive Ford Trophy Elimination Final tomorrow, facing off against the Central Stags at University of Otago Oval in Dunedin. The first ball is at 10:30 am, and fans can catch all the action live on NZ Cricket’s YouTube channel. With a place in Sunday’s Final on the line, the ACES will be fired up to put in a big performance and earn another shot at Canterbury, after falling to them in a dramatic final-ball finish last weekend.

Despite coming into the match as favourites, having finished higher on the leaderboard, the ACES know they’re in for a battle. The two sides have one win apiece against each other this season— the ACES took out their October meeting, while the Stags responded with a win earlier this month. That makes this a true decider, with both teams knowing exactly what’s at stake. The ACES, however, will take confidence from the return of Simon Keene and Adi Ashok from injury, adding strength to a squad already packed with talent.

The mix of exciting young players and experienced campaigners has been a hallmark of the ACES’ season, and that balance will be crucial in this knockout clash. Finn Allen and Jimmy Neesham bring proven firepower and big-game experience, while the likes of Danru Ferns and Jock McKenzie continue to show their class under pressure. Every ball will count, and the ACES will be leaving it all on the park in their push for a place in the Ford Trophy Final.

Ford Trophy Elimination Final

Central Stags vs. Auckland ACES

28 February 2025 | 10:30am

University of Otago Oval, Dunedin

Article added: Thursday 27 February 2025