The Auckland ACES return home to Eden Park’s Kennards Hire Community Oval this week to face table-toppers Canterbury in the final round of the 2025-26 Plunket Shield, with first ball at 10:30am from Friday 27 March to Monday 30 March.

The ACES enter the final round as underdogs, needing a win alongside strong batting and bowling points to keep their hopes alive, with Canterbury still capable of lifting the Plunket Shield even if results do not fully go their way. Results elsewhere may also prove crucial, with the Northern Districts vs Central Stags and Otago vs Wellington Firebirds fixtures set to shape the final standings.

With a storm forecast to impact Round 8 across the country, weather could play a significant role in determining where the Plunket Shield ultimately lands, adding further intrigue to an already tightly poised finish.

The ACES come into the contest on the back of a commanding three-day victory over the Firebirds in Wellington, with several players delivering standout performances. Simon Keene produced a strong all-round display, claiming five wickets across the match while contributing a classy 62 with the bat. Luke Watson impressed on First-Class debut with a composed 86, while Lachie Stackpole dominated proceedings with an unbeaten 172.

The ACES pace attack also played a key role in maintaining pressure across both innings, combining discipline and consistency to help secure the comprehensive win and build momentum heading into the final round.

With silverware on the line and multiple scenarios still in play, the stage is set for a compelling finish to the Plunket Shield season at Eden Park’s Kennards Hire Community Oval.

Match details:
Auckland ACES vs Canterbury
Plunket Shield – Round 8
Friday 27 March – Monday 30 March
10:30am start daily
Eden Park’s Kennards Hire Community Oval, Auckland
Free entry

ACES unavailable due to injury: Cam Fletcher, Matt Gibson, Harrish Kannan, Jock McKenzie, Angus Olliver.

Photocredit: Photosport

Article added: Thursday 26 March 2026