YARRA Valley Cricket Association sides Coldstream and Warburton-Millgrove are locked in a torrid battle after day one of their DJ Strachan Shield game.
In an important clash for both sides, Coldstream batted first at Warburton's Mac Spark Oval, but apart from a dogged 31 from opener Matt Johnson, the Crocs couldn't muster much against an experienced Burras attack led by the consistent spin of Cam Darwall (3-19) and were bowled out for a limp 138.
The Crocs would be pleased, however, with the comeback they put together late on the first day, reducing an in-form Burras batting line-up to 5-48.
Brendan Woods (22 not out) and the tail hold the key for the Burras after Matthew Stark cut through the top order with 3-7.
Hoddles Creek would be deeply disappointed it couldn't do better than 142 in its clash against bottom side Silvan. The Wombats couldn't get any momentum against the experienced bowling of Shane Walliker (6-40) with youngsters Dave Chesney (37) and Brad Arnold (28) leading the way for the visitors.
Mt Evelyn's smash and grab batting style worked against them in sits clash against Yarra Junction. The Rovers' top order made solid starts but fell by the sword as they gave their wickets away too easily and found themselves struggling at 7-120. A steady performance from the tail, with the support of an impressive knock by Gareth Fraser (39), enabled the visitors to post a competitive 188.
The game will probably come down to the battle between league guns Kane Jones with the ball, and David Lever with the bat.
Woori Yallock posted a formidable 243 against Healesville.
Greg Selby beefed up the score with a blistering 80, but it was consistent performers Ryan Smith (39) and Simon Young (37) who provided the backbone to the score.