COLDSTREAM’S batsmen will face a stern test this Saturday when play resumes in its YVCA DJ Strachan Shield clash against Mt Evelyn.
The Rovers elected to bat on the first day and, after the loss of two quick wickets, the pressure was building on the home side.
Luke Jones (45) joined unlikely opener Chris Anderson and the pair went about rescuing the innings. With a disciplined bowling attack, the game was in the balance at tea after both batsmen fell.
Rovers captain Kane Jones (114) took advantage of his teammates’ early work as he took the sword to the tiring bowlers to blast a quickfire century to put his side in prime position.
A late fightback from experienced Crocs bowler Matthew Johnson (4-44) ensured the Rovers’ innings was curtailed to 260 despite a late flurry from young gun Gareth Fraser (36 not out).
The Crocs have an excellent, well-rounded, batting line-up that will challenge the disciplined Rovers attack.
At Queen’s Park, Healesville hosted Warburton-Millgrove in a key game between the sides, which sit third and fourth on the ladder.
The home side opened the game with the bat and opener Scott Hill (31) made a fair fist of the early going before Damien Egan sparked a dramatic turnaround with a disciplined line and length that netted him 7-45.
Healesville’s total got a boost through an excellent partnership between Brian Scanlon (55) and Steven Campbell (37 not out) left the Burras 187 to win.
Woori Yallock, which hosted Hoddles Creek, was keen to atone for recent poor performances that put them at the bottom of the ladder.
The Tigers’ top order was held together by the in-form Cal Ferguson (51). who helped form a platform for the rest of his team.
Captain Simon Young took full advantage as he blasted an entertaining 72 to leave the home side within sight of a massive total. The team finished at 273 all out.
At Yarra Junction, the Eagles were at home to ladder-leading Seville. The Blues were looking to get back on track after their first loss last week.
The visitors batted first and battled hard throughout the day to compile 210. Gary Frankovic (51) was the top scorer.