State Wellington Blaze host State Canterbury Magicians in the State League final at the Basin Reserve this weekend.
Wellington, who topped the regular season standings this year, and perennial contenders Canterbury could not be split the last time the teams played off for the championship.
The previous final match up between the sides three years ago ended in stalemate, with the trophy shared after rain on both scheduled days.
The Blaze won seven of their 10 State League matches and ensured home advantage with a game to spare.
The Magicians last won the State League in 2005 but were defeated by State Central Hinds in last year’s final after topping the table.
Canterbury, who only sealed second place in their final match, were led by White Ferns Maria Fahey, who recorded 323 runs at and captain Haidee Tiffen, who made 238 runs at
Anna Smith has scored 285 runs, Megan Wakefield 196 runs for the Blaze, but their prolific bowling attack gave them the edge.
Sophie Devine and Sian Ruck, with 23 and 15 wickets respectively, have led this season’s bowling aggregates, aiding their progress to top position, with 35 points, nine ahead of their visitors.
The teams only played each other once this season, Wellington winning by four wickets on 11 January.
- The State League final - Wellington Blaze v Canterbury Magicians - commences at the Basin Reserve at 10.30am Saturday 27 January – entry is free, and live scoring exclusively at .
