A Matthew Kiely century was the highlight in Rivergum’s draw with Lalor Warriors in the North Metro Cricket Association’s Jika Shield.
With rain washing out most of the first day, getting a result on Saturday was always going to be touch and go.
The Kookas batted for most of the day, making 3-207 after resuming at 0-43. The Warriors were given the chance to bat late, but decided not to with the match finishing in a draw.
Kookas coach Gary Bell said with just 18 overs bowled on day one, it was always going to be hard to get a result.
“We had a bit of batting practice,” he said.
“We didn’t want to declare too early and then give them the chance to chase down the runs. We were in a tough spot and we felt there was no need to try and force the result.”
Bell said watching Kiely bat and go on to make his century was the excitement of the day. Kiely made 109, while fellow opener James Bonnici made 52.
Lakmal Keerthirathna took two wickets for the Warriors.
Bell said they were looking forward to getting the opportunity to get out on the park and play some proper two-day cricket.
This game was interrupted by rain, while their first match after Christmas was heated out.
“We just want to get out there and play,” he said.
“We want to have fun. It’s a bit annoying getting so close to finals.”
The ladder-leading Kookas this week play last year’s premiers North Brunswick-Rosebank, who sit fifth. A win would all but seal a top two finish for the Kookas.
Bell said that was vital heading into finals.
“It’s a big game this week and we can all but seal a top two spot. That’s where you want to finish … it’s a big advantage come finals time if it’s hot or raining again.
“No matter the result this week, I think North Brunswick-Rosebank will play finals. The cream rises to the top.
“It’s interesting to see the way things will play out. The new teams which have come up from B-grade are shaping finals and making it interesting.”
In another boost for the Kookas, they seem to be getting over their early season injury concerns.
Daniel Bramich is back bowling and looking to increase his workload, while Corey Altis is set to return to the side next week.
Bell said they were starting to get their full side back on the field.
