New Zealand Domestic Cricket Season 2024-25 Kicks Off with Ford Trophy

For the first time in six years, New Zealand's domestic cricket season will commence with the Ford Trophy, the men's 50-over tournament, instead of the traditional Plunket Shield. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) revealed the schedule for the 2024-25 season on Friday, with action beginning on October 20. Defending champions Canterbury will face Wellington in one of the three opening-day matches in the Ford Trophy.

The Plunket Shield will take over from November 11, with two rounds leading up to New Zealand's Test series against England. The first Test is scheduled for November 28, coinciding with the third round of the Plunket Shield.

The women’s one-day competition, the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, is set to start on November 16, factoring in Australia's upcoming tour, which includes three ODIs. Six rounds of the tournament will be completed before New Zealand faces Australia in the first ODI on December 19.

In total, 14 venues will host matches across the three domestic competitions throughout the season.

Richard Brewer, NZC’s head of cricket operations, explained that the shift to begin the season with white-ball cricket was made after consulting players, coaches, and turf managers. He noted that the change will introduce new pitch conditions, creating different challenges for batters and bowlers alike. Brewer also emphasised that the alignment of the Plunket Shield with the England Test series is a beneficial adjustment.

Brewer also highlighted the importance of starting the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield ahead of the White Ferns' series against Australia, stating that it provides New Zealand’s top female players with valuable preparation and an opportunity to push for national selection.

For the men, after five rounds of the Ford Trophy, the Plunket Shield will run for four rounds until December 10. The Ford Trophy will then resume on February 6 and culminate in the final on March 2 in Dunedin, before the Plunket Shield returns from March 5, concluding with the final round from March 29 to April 1.

The women’s Hallyburton Johnstone Shield will take a break after six rounds on December 15 and restart on February 8, with the final also scheduled for March 1 in Dunedin.

However, NZC has yet to announce the dates for the Super Smash, the men’s and women’s T20 competition.