THE top of the table clash between North Sportsman’s and West Gambier in Round 7 of the Mount Gambier and District Cricket Association Barber Shield competition at Marist Park will be an intriguing one.
The one-day format means for a shorter game where little mistakes will have a big impact on the final result.
North sits on top of the Barber Shield ladder due to its undefeated status.
However, the Tigers will go in with little confidence this weekend, with a trio of players still absent from the side, due to state commitments.
The Tigers are missing Josh Fidler, plus Nick and Matthew McInerney and as a result will be undermanned.
They are representing the South Australian Outbacks in the Australian Country Cricket Championships and will return to the Barber Shield competition in Round 8.
While their return does not help South Gambier’s chances at an upset in that round, the absent players certainly gives West the boost it needs to cause a reversed result.
Penola was hoping for the same last weekend, but the high temperature came into play and as a result all matches were abandoned.
It is difficult to decipher as to whether the heat policy worked in favour of the Tigers or not.
They were coming up against a strong Eagles outfit and the match could have gone either way.
However, due to the abandonment, both sides are given equal points and the game was classed as a draw.
Despite rain today, the forecast for tomorrow looks fine for cricket and as a result it is unlikely play will again be cancelled.
The Tigers will not take its game against West this weekend lightly.
The Roos will have their full side on deck and up to the half-way mark of the season have proved they are a force to be reckoned with.
Their recruitment’s over the off-season have strengthen the line-up after the departure of 2016-17 captain Ryan Hosking and veteran Shane Dycer.
Sam Willis, Ben Hentschke and Richard Crute have all been solid inclusions into the side, as well as former Yahl player Jack Gosling.
If the Roos bring their A-game it could see a comfortable victory.
However, it will not be all smooth sailing.
Despite North missing three talented cricketers, it still has a wealth of talent and Jake Schutz is a prime example.
He has been in unstoppable form so far this season through reaching large tallies with the bat and holding his wicket.
Add to that the strength of captain Tim Young and Jack Armfield with the ball.
North is the reigning champion of the Barber Shield competition and will no doubt be difficult to beat.
However, each close match so far this season has seen the Tigers come out on top at the end of play.
If the Tigers allow West to get the jump early they could be in trouble.
But it is likely North will find a way to be competitive.
With both sides having a solid case, it is likely this game will come down to the wire.
