The Auckland HEARTS open their 2025-26 Hallyburton Johnstone Shield campaign this weekend with back-to-back clashes against the Otago Sparks at University of Otago Oval in Dunedin.

The matches will mark a special milestone for skipper Maddy Green, who is set to play her 100th Hallyburton Johnstone Shield game for Auckland on Saturday. Green led the competition in runs last season, scoring 698 at an average of 69.80, including three centuries. Her dominant summer saw her claim multiple accolades, including the Ruth Martin Cup for women’s domestic batting, ACA Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Player of the Year, ACA Women’s Cricketer of the Year (Emily Drumm Trophy), and HEARTS Players’ Player of the Year.

The HEARTS will look to build on last season’s strong form, having reached the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Final against the same Sparks outfit. A settled squad returns for the opening rounds, with a mix of international experience and exciting young talent ready to make their mark.

The HEARTS take on the Otago Sparks at University of Otago Oval, Dunedin, with the first ball at 10:30am on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November. Entry is free.

Match details:
Otago Sparks vs Auckland HEARTS
Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Round 1 & 2
Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 November, 10:30 am
University of Otago Oval, Dunedin
Free entry

Auckland HEARTS squad:

Olivia Anderson - Parnell
Bella Armstrong - Cornwall
Elizabeth Buchanan - Auckland University
Prue Catton - Auckland University
Lauren Down - Takapuna
Maddy Green - Cornwall
Brooke Halliday - Howick Pakuranga
Amie Hucker - Cornwall
Bree Illing - Cornwall
Rishika Jaswal - North Shore
Fran Jonas - Cornwall
Josie Penfold - Howick Pakuranga
Molly Penfold - Howick Pakuranga

Unavailable due to injury: Izzy Gaze, Eve Meache

Article added: Thursday 13 November 2025