Match Highlights: Otago vs Auckland, 28th Match, The Ford Trophy 2025-26

Date: February 16, 2026
Venue: John Davies Oval, Queenstown

Auckland triumphed over Otago by 6 wickets in a dominant performance. Dale Phillips was the standout with the bat for Auckland, scoring a brisk half-century. On the bowling front, Jarrod McKay impressed with a four-wicket haul for Otago, while Simon Keene and Rohit Gulati each took three wickets for Auckland. Adithya Ashok also contributed significantly with both bat and ball.

Detailed Narrative

The match began with Auckland winning the toss and electing to bowl first. Otago struggled to build momentum, managing only 158 runs before being bowled out in 43.3 overs. The innings featured a near half-century from Jacob Cumming, who scored 49 runs off 66 balls with 4 fours and 2 sixes. Thomas O Connor provided some resistance lower down the order with 29 runs. However, Auckland's bowlers were relentless, with Rohit Gulati taking crucial wickets and ending with figures of 3/22 in his 10 overs. Simon Keene was equally effective, claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs in his spell.

Auckland's chase was led by Dale Phillips, who scored an even-paced 54 runs from 54 deliveries, including six boundaries and a six. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals due to an impressive bowling spell by Jarrod McKay (4/23), Auckland comfortably reached their target in just 23.4 overs. Sean Solia and Ryan Harrison chipped in with useful contributions of 19 and 14 runs respectively.

Jarrod McKay's performance with the ball stood out as he picked up four wickets, causing brief moments of concern for Auckland during their chase. However, the target proved too modest as Auckland sealed the victory convincingly.

In summary, Auckland's all-round performance, particularly their disciplined bowling attack led by Rohit Gulati and Simon Keene, coupled with Dale Phillips' batting prowess, ensured they secured a comfortable win against Otago.