The Auckland ACES return to Ford Trophy action with a home clash against Canterbury at Eden Park’s Kennards Hire Community Oval on Wednesday, as domestic cricket resumes following the conclusion of Super Smash.

It marks the first Ford Trophy round since the T20 competition wrapped, and also the first meeting between the two sides since their Super Smash elimination final, where the ACES fell to the Canterbury outfit. With Canterbury currently sitting atop the Ford Trophy table, one win clear of second placed Auckland at the halfway point of the competition, the ACES will be eager to reassert themselves on home turf.

The ACES are bolstered by the return of Bevon Jacobs, who rejoins the squad after featuring in the BLACKCAPS T20 series in India. Jacobs adds firepower to the middle order and will be keen to make an immediate impact back in domestic colours.

Cam Fletcher also returns to the lineup after sitting out the Super Smash finals while awaiting the birth of his child. His presence strengthens both the batting depth and leadership within the group, as the ACES look to start the second half of their Ford Trophy campaign on a positive note.

With Canterbury setting the early pace in the competition, the ACES know a strong performance at home would be a statement of intent. The squad will be focused on executing their plans and capitalising on familiar conditions, as they aim to close the gap at the top of the table.

The ACES take on Canterbury in Round 6 of the Ford Trophy at Eden Park's Kennards Hire Community Oval, with first ball at 10:30 am on Wednesday 4 February.

Match details:
Auckland ACES vs Canterbury
Ford Trophy – Round 6
Wednesday 4 February, 10:30 am
Eden Park’s Kennards Hire Community Oval, Auckland
Free entry

Unavailable due to injury: Simon Keene, Jock McKenzie, Jordan Sussex.

Article added: Monday 02 February 2026