# New Zealand Domestic Cricket Wrap - Ford Trophy and Plunket Shield Updates ## Ford Trophy The Ford Trophy, New Zealand's domestic one-day competition, is nearing its conclusion with just two rounds remaining in the regular season. Canterbury and Otago Volts currently occupy the top two spots on the ladder, with both teams having secured a place in the semi-finals. Canterbury, led by Henry Nicholls, has been in impressive form throughout the tournament, winning six of their eight matches. Their batting lineup has been particularly strong, with Chad Bowes, Ken McClure, and Daryl Mitchell all contributing significant runs. Otago Volts, on the other hand, have relied on their bowling attack to lead them to success. Hamish Rutherford and Nathan Smith have been the standout performers with the ball, taking 15 and 14 wickets respectively. Northern Districts and Central Districts are currently battling for the third and fourth semi-final spots. Northern Districts, who won the competition last year, have been inconsistent this season but still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. Central Districts, on the other hand, have been in good form and will be confident of securing a top-four finish. ## Plunket Shield The Plunket Shield, New Zealand's domestic first-class competition, is also nearing its conclusion, with just three rounds remaining in the regular season. Canterbury and Wellington Firebirds are currently the frontrunners for the title, with both teams having won four of their seven matches. Canterbury, led by Leo Carter, has been in excellent form this season. Their batting lineup has been led by Ken McClure and Cam Fletcher, while their bowling attack has been spearheaded by Matt Henry and Ed Nuttall. Wellington Firebirds, led by Michael Bracewell, have also been in impressive form. Their batting lineup has been led by Devon Conway and Logan van Beek, while their bowling attack has been led by Hamish Bennett and Ollie Newton. Auckland Aces and Otago Volts are currently in third and fourth place respectively and will be hoping to secure a top-four finish and a place in the semi-finals. The race for the Plunket Shield title is sure to go down to the wire, with several teams still in contention. The final round of matches will be played from March 8-12. ## New Zealand National Cricket Team The New Zealand national cricket team is currently preparing for their upcoming tour of England. The Black Caps will play three Tests, three One-Day Internationals, and five Twenty20 Internationals against the hosts. The Test series will be particularly important for New Zealand, as they are looking to secure a place in the World Test Championship final. The Black Caps are currently ranked third in the ICC Test rankings, behind Australia and India. The One-Day International and Twenty20 International series will also be important for New Zealand, as they will provide the team with valuable experience ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The Black Caps are one of the favorites to win the tournament, which will be played in India from October 11 to November 13.
Comments