With the ACES' limited-overs season wrapped up, attention now turns to the Plunket Shield as they look to carry their Ford Trophy momentum into the longest format. Sitting in the middle of a tightly contested table after four rounds, the ACES have a prime opportunity to push up the standings when they take on Central Districts from 5–8 March at Kennards Hire Community Oval. First ball is at 10:30 AM, with all the action live-streamed on NZ Cricket’s YouTube channel.
 
The last time these two sides met, the ACES came out on top in a high-stakes Ford Trophy elimination final. This will be their first Plunket Shield meeting of the season, setting the stage for an intriguing battle between two teams eager to make a move up the ladder.
 
The ACES squad features plenty of familiar faces from their Ford Trophy campaign, including 19-year-old Lachie Stackpole, whose back-to-back fifties proved crucial in the elimination final and the Final. With a mix of experience and in-form players, the ACES will be looking to make a strong start as they shift gears into red-ball cricket.
 
Plunket Shield Round 5
Auckland ACES vs. Central Stags
5-8 March 2025 | 10:30am
Kennards Hire Community Oval, Eden Park
 

Article added: Tuesday 04 March 2025