The Auckland ACES return to action this Saturday, kicking off their 2025/26 Ford Trophy campaign at home against Northern Districts. The match gets underway at 10:30am at Kennards Hire Community Oval, Eden Park, and entry is free for all fans.

After a strong 2024/25 season that saw the ACES reach the Ford Trophy Final, the side will be eager to go one better this year. Their run to the decider showcased the depth and resilience within the squad, with standout performances across the park before a hard-fought loss to Canterbury in the final.

This year’s group is shaping up as a dynamic mix of experience and emerging talent. The ACES will be aiming to start their campaign with intent, setting the tone early in front of a home crowd.

Adi Ashok leads the charge this weekend, captaining the ACES in their clash against Northern Districts. The young leg-spinner continues to deliver on his immense talent and promise, recently earning a central contract with the BLACKCAPS. It’s a proud moment for both Adi and Auckland Cricket, as he steps into a leadership role while continuing to shine as one of the most exciting emerging players in New Zealand cricket.

Ashok says: "I'm very excited and honoured to have the opportunity to lead this group. It's a privilege to play for Auckland and we're really keen to represent the city with pride!"

Supporters are encouraged to come down, back the boys in blue, and enjoy a full day of high-quality domestic cricket in the heart of the city.

Match details:
Auckland ACES vs Northern Districts
Ford Trophy - Round 1
Saturday 25 October, 10:30am
Kennards Hire Community Oval, Eden Park
Free entry
 

Adi Ashok - Suburbs New Lynn

Sid Dixit - Cornwall

Cam Fletcher - East Coast Bays

Rohit Gulati - Papatoetoe

Ryan Harrison - East Coast Bays

Bevon Jacobs - Hibiscus Coast

Harrish Kannan - Cornwall

Simon Keene - North Shore

Ben Lister - Suburbs New Lynn

Jock Mckenzie - North Shore

Jimmy Neesham - Suburbs New Lynn

Dale Phillips - Howick Pakuranga

Coaches:

Rob Nicol: Head Coach

Mitchell McClenaghan: Assistant Coach


Unavailable due to injury:

Angus Olliver

Samrath Singh

Sean Solia

Lachie Stackpole

Article added: Friday 24 October 2025