CTB vs WF Dream11 Prediction: Super Smash Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI & Pitch Report

The Super Smash action heads to the scenic Hagley Oval as the Canterbury Kings look to settle scores against the Wellington Firebirds. Just a few days ago, Wellington crushed Canterbury by a massive margin, but playing at home changes the dynamics for the Kings. With Tom Blundell smashing runs for fun and Cole McConchie delivering all round value, this contest is set to be a goldmine for fantasy skills. Will the Kings defend their fortress, or will the Firebirds burn bright again?

3. Match Details

• Match: Canterbury Kings (CTB) vs Wellington Firebirds (WF)
• Series: Super Smash T20
• Date: 23 Jan 2026
• Time: 10:25 AM IST (17:55 Local NZDT)
• Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch

4. Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Indian fans can catch the live action on the FanCode app and website.

5. Weather Report

The weather in Christchurch is expected to be pleasant for cricket. Forecasts suggest a temperature around 22°C with partial cloud cover. While there is a slight breeze expected, the rain probability is low, ensuring we should get a full 40-over contest.

6. Pitch Report & Venue Stats

Hagley Oval is known for offering good bounce and carry, which generally excites the fast bowlers. The stats back this up pacers have taken 39 wickets in the last 5 matches compared to just 25 by spinners. However, the ball comes onto the bat nicely, with an average first innings score of 165. Batters who settle in can score big here.

7. Team Form & Head to-Head

• Canterbury (CTB): L L-W L-W (Inconsistent form, lost previous match to WF)
• Wellington (WF): W L-L L-L (Broke a losing streak with a win vs CTB)
• Head to-Head: Wellington holds a slight edge with 14 wins compared to Canterbury's 13.

8. Injury Updates & Player Availability

• Canterbury: Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls are part of the squad list but check lineups as they rotate due to national duties. Matthew Boyle and Cole McConchie are the confirmed regulars.
• Wellington: Tom Blundell is in the form of his life. Ben Sears and Logan van Beek are fully fit and firing.

9. Probable Playing XI (Both Teams)

Canterbury Kings: Chad Bowes, Matthew Boyle, Leo Carter, Cole McConchie (c), Jesse Frew, Mitchell Hay (wk), Michael Rippon, Sean Davey, Cameron Paul, Fraser Sheat, Michael Rae.

Wellington Firebirds: Tom Blundell (wk), Tim Robinson, Muhammad Abbas, Jesse Tashkoff, Nick Kelly, Oscar Jackson, Logan van Beek, Peter Younghusband, Ben Sears, James Hartshorn, Michael Snedden.

10. Key Players to Watch

• Tom Blundell (WF): The wicketkeeper batter is unstoppable right now, scoring 319 runs in the series with a massive 84.6 average fantasy points.
• Cole McConchie (CTB): A true captain's pick. He has 84 runs and 9 wickets in the series, making him a safe choice for your fantasy contests.
• Logan van Beek (WF): An elite all rounder who bowls at the death. He has 8 wickets and 98 runs, providing dual value.
• Ben Sears (WF): With 11 wickets in the series, his pace will be lethal on the bouncy Hagley Oval surface.
• Matthew Boyle (CTB): The top run getter for Canterbury recently with 175 runs; crucial for the top order.

11. Fantasy Picks

Top Picks for Small Leagues:

• Tom Blundell (Captaincy Material)
• Cole McConchie
• Logan van Beek
• Ben Sears

Differential Picks for Mega Leagues:

• Cameron Paul: Has picked up 8 wickets and is often under selected.
• Jesse Tashkoff: A solid middle order batter with 211 runs this series; great value pick.

12. Match Prediction / Outlook

While Wellington won the last encounter convincingly, Canterbury is a different beast at Hagley Oval. The conditions suit Canterbury's seamers like Fraser Sheat and Sean Davey. However, given Tom Blundell's surreal form, Wellington starts as slight favorites. Expect a close contest with the team winning the toss likely opting to bowl first to utilize the early moisture.

13. Disclaimer

This analysis is based on historical data and current player form. Fantasy sports involve an element of financial risk and may be addictive. Please play responsibly and at your own risk.