New Zealand Cricket Unveils 2026–27 Domestic Schedules

New Zealand Cricket has officially released the schedules for the upcoming Ford Trophy and Hallyburton Johnstone Shield competitions for the 2026–27 summer.

Spanning from Whangarei’s Cobham Oval to Invercargill’s Queen’s Park, the national one-day tournaments are designed to maximise fan engagement, expand broadcast footprints, and drive commercial value across the country. Both competitions will culminate in a blockbuster Finals Weekend hosted at Wellington’s Cello Basin Reserve from February 19 to 21, 2027.

The layout of the fixtures places a heavy emphasis on regional market penetration, showcasing unique venues such as New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park, Nelson’s Saxton Oval, and Queenstown’s Sir John Davies Oval. Furthermore, Auckland’s Colin Maiden Park is set to return to the domestic rotation following extensive redevelopment, boosting local infrastructure capabilities. 

Defending men’s champions the Central Stags will commence their Ford Trophy campaign against Northern Districts Men at Saxton Oval on October 28, while reigning women’s titleholders Northern Districts Women begin their Hallyburton Johnstone Shield defence against the Central Hinds at Fitzherbert Park on November 14. 

Emphasising the rationale behind the nationwide footprint, NZC chief cricket operations Officer Catherine Campbell noted the immense value of bringing elite sport directly to regional communities.

“No matter where you live in Aotearoa, there’s a good chance a Ford Trophy or Hallyburton Johnstone Shield match is coming to a ground near you this summer.” 

“This year’s schedule once again gives fans the chance to watch our best domestic talent up close at some fantastic regional venues.

“The combined Finals Weekend concept continues to be a success and it’s exciting to be bringing it back to the Cello Basin Reserve this summer.

“This schedule also dovetails nicely with our international summer, meaning there’s top-class cricket on offer right through the peak summer cricket months,” said Campbell.

Matches live-scored on nzc.nz and broadcast via YouTube.

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