The Ford Trophy is New Zealand’s top domestic List A one-day cricket competition and started with the 1971-72 season. Over time, the name of the tournament has changed on various ocassions due to sponsorship reasons. The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and the Ford Motor Company partnered in 2011 and the tournament is known as The Ford Trophy since then.
Canterbury holds the record for the most titles, with 17 championships. Other notable teams include Auckland, Wellington, and Northern Districts, each with several victories.
This article will highlight the winners of the Ford Trophy from the first edition to the present. It will showcase each team’s performances, title wins, and consistency over the years, giving readers a complete overview of the competition’s history.
The Ford Trophy Winners List
Take a look at the winners here,
| Season | Winner | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|
| 1971-72 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 1972-73 | Auckland | Otago |
| 1973-74 | Wellington | Auckland |
| 1974-75 | Wellington | Northern Districts |
| 1975-76 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 1976-77 | Canterbury | Northern Districts |
| 1977-78 | Canterbury | Northern Districts |
| 1978-79 | Auckland | Canterbury |
| 1979-80 | Northern Districts | Otago |
| 1980-81 | Auckland | Canterbury |
| 1981-82 | Wellington | Canterbury |
| 1982-83 | Auckland | Northern Districts |
| 1983-84 | Auckland | Wellington |
| 1984-85 | Central Districts | Wellington |
| 1985-86 | Canterbury | No final |
| 1986-87 | Auckland | No final |
| 1987-88 | Otago | No final |
| 1988-89 | Wellington | No final |
| 1989-90 | Auckland | Central Districts |
| 1990-91 | Wellington | Central Districts |
| 1991-92 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 1992-93 | Canterbury | Otago |
| 1993-94 | Canterbury | Central Districts |
| 1994-95 | Northern Districts | Wellington |
| 1995-96 | Canterbury | Northern Districts |
| 1996-97 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 1997-98 | Northern Districts | Canterbury |
| 1998-99 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 1999-00 | Canterbury | Auckland |
| 2000-01 | Central Districts | Canterbury |
| 2001-02 | Wellington | Canterbury |
| 2002-03 | Northern Districts | Auckland |
| 2003-04 | Central Districts | Canterbury |
| 2004-05 | Northern Districts | Central Districts |
| 2005-06 | Canterbury | Central Districts |
| 2006-07 | Auckland | Otago |
| 2007-08 | Otago | Auckland |
| 2008-09 | Northern Districts | Otago |
| 2009-10 | Northern Districts | Auckland |
| 2010-11 | Auckland | Canterbury |
| 2011-12 | Central Districts | Auckland |
| 2012-13 | Auckland | Canterbury |
| 2013-14 | Wellington | Northern Districts |
| 2014-15 | Central Districts | Auckland |
| 2015-16 | Central Districts | Canterbury |
| 2016-17 | Canterbury | Wellington |
| 2017-18 | Auckland | Central Districts |
| 2018-19 | Wellington | Otago |
| 2019-20 | Auckland | Otago |
| 2020-21 | Canterbury | Northern Districts |
| 2021-22 | Auckland | Central Districts |
| 2022-23 | Central Districts | Canterbury |
| 2023-24 | Canterbury | Auckland |
| 2024-25 | Canterbury | Auckland |
Here’s a breakdown of how each team has performed in the tournament so far:
Canterbury – 17 Titles
Canterbury has been the most dominant team in the Ford Trophy, claiming 17 titles since the tournament began. Their remarkable consistency is highlighted by multiple back-to-back victories, including recent consecutive wins in 2023/24 and 2024/25.
The team’s depth in both batting and bowling, combined with strong leadership, has allowed them to perform under pressure consistently. Their sustained success over decades has made them a benchmark in New Zealand domestic cricket.
Auckland – 13 Titles
Auckland has been one of the top contenders, claiming 13 titles over the years. Their latest victory in 2021/22 shows their continued competitiveness. While back-to-back titles have been rare, Auckland frequently reaches finals and remains a strong challenger.
Their balanced squads and consistent performances make them capable of competing with the best teams and maintaining pressure throughout the tournament.
Wellington (8 Titles)
Wellington has won eight Ford Trophy titles, with the latest in 2018/19. While they have not dominated like Canterbury, Wellington often competes well in crucial matches and later stages.
Their squad balance allows them to challenge top teams, and they have occasionally produced surprises. The team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure ensure they remain a competitive force in New Zealand domestic cricket.
Northern Districts (7 Titles)
Northern Districts have secured seven titles, showcasing steady performances over the years. They have periodically dominated domestic cricket, with strong batting and bowling units.
While recent championships are fewer, Northern Districts remain a competitive side capable of challenging top teams. Their ability to rebuild squads and perform consistently makes them a respected contender each season.
Central Districts (7 Titles)
Central Districts have won seven Ford Trophy titles, including a recent triumph in 2022/23. Known for producing talented players, they adapt well to different conditions and remain competitive across seasons.
The team has a record of strong performances and resilience after runner-up finishes, making them a consistent challenger in New Zealand domestic cricket.
Otago (2 Titles)
Otago has claimed two Ford Trophy titles, most recently in 2018/19. Although less dominant than other teams, they have occasionally produced strong performances.
Otago remains capable of surprising opponents with balanced batting and bowling, and their squad depth ensures they can compete effectively. Despite fewer championships, they continue to be a respected contender in New Zealand domestic cricket.
The Ford Trophy 2025/26 – The Upcoming Edition
The Ford Trophy 2025 is set to begin soon. This tournament promises another exciting season of domestic cricket in New Zealand. Teams will be eager to show their skills and gain momentum early on.
Defending champions and past winners will aim to lift the trophy again. Meanwhile, challengers will try to upset the established teams. With consistent players and new talents, this edition is expected to be competitive and thrilling from start to finish.
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Conclusion: Canterbury Leads The Ford Trophy with Unmatched 17-title Dominance!
The Ford Trophy has a rich history and has seen many great teams rise over the decades. Canterbury leads with 17 titles. Auckland, Wellington, Northern Districts, Central Districts, and Otago have also made their mark.
Each season brings excitement, with teams showing resilience, talent, and competitive spirit. Back-to-back wins and strong performances have created some of the league’s most memorable moments.
As the 2025/26 edition approaches, fans can expect thrilling matches. Past champions will defend their titles, and every team will aim to shine. The tournament promises intense cricket and unforgettable moments.
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