Hagley Oval to Host Super Smash Finals for Men and Women
Hagley Oval in Christchurch has been confirmed as the host venue for the knockout stages of both the men’s and women’s Super Smash competitions this season. The elimination and grand finals will be played over the last three days of January 2026, following a similar format to last season's finale held at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the fixtures for the 2025-26 Super Smash season, which will begin on Boxing Day and span 32 days, featuring a total of 64 games. The season will kick off with Northern Brave taking on Auckland’s men’s and women’s teams at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
Hagley Oval’s selection as the finals venue marks a significant moment for the Canterbury cricket community. Suzanne Pearce, executive manager of the Canterbury Cricket Trust, expressed pride in the decision, saying it was a major boost for the city and the wider region.
“We think we have the best ground in New Zealand, and it’s a huge vote of confidence in the venue, the city, and the cricket community here in Christchurch,” Pearce said. “Our fans have been incredibly loyal, and this is a chance for them to see the best players in the country in action, right in the heart of our city park.”
The season comes on the back of a record-breaking year for the Super Smash. According to NZC, over one million viewers tuned in via TVNZ broadcasts, with 7.3 million digital views across the competition's online platforms—marking a “watershed” moment for the tournament’s popularity.
Last season's men’s champions, Central Districts, will be looking to defend their title, while Canterbury continues to chase a long-awaited trophy, having finished runners-up in five of the past seasons. The two sides are set to face off again on New Year’s Day at Hagley Oval, a rematch of last season’s final.
Tom Bruce, Central Districts captain and last season’s Men’s Player of the Year, spoke about the competitive intensity of the Super Smash.
“With only six teams in the competition, you often face the same squads, so you need to constantly evolve,” Bruce said. “It prepares players for the next level, whether that’s the BLACKCAPS or WHITE FERNS, by giving them valuable experience in front of big crowds and national TV audiences.”
Adding a charitable touch, KFC’s “6’s for Surf” campaign will return, pledging $100 to Surf Lifesaving New Zealand for every six hit during the competition. Last season, the initiative raised $38,100.
With a packed schedule, high-profile clashes, and finals cricket returning to one of the country's most scenic venues, the 2025-26 Super Smash promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet.