Sunny times

By Keith Thompson
IN AN unusual twist, the weather gods smiled down upon the Yarra Valley Cricket Association on the weekend.
The DJ Strachan Shield’s batting sides enjoyed the extended opportunity at the crease and the chance to build an uninterrupted innings.
Warburton-Millgrove hosted Seville and the visitors made first use of the conditions, ending the day at 7/242 (Dean Troyahn 64, Leigh Aitkins 61 and Andrew Kay 36).
Warburton’s bowling was led by the combination of Luke Darwall, Adam Humprheys and Michael Walker.
At Wandin, Yarra Junction is 0/41 at stumps in reply to Wandin’s first innings score of 162 all out. The Wandin tail wagged to ensure the score edged past 100, after a poor start had them 5/70.
Healesville are 2/28 in reply to home side Coldstream’s innings of 138.
This match could prove to be a close low scoring encounter as Healesville’s patchy form in the short version of the game and the lack of long innings by their batsmen may prove critical going in to day two.
At Hoddles Creek, visitors Woori Yallock posted a fine tally at day one’s end with 272 on the board.
Hoddles Creek have been running hot and cold with the bat this season but there is no doubt they have the talent to reach their target.
Good weather provided, the Derix brothers, Batten, and others will give it a serious shake.
Silvan, who have slipped from top place on the ladder in the past two rounds, face a big target at Mount Evelyn – where the home side reached 296.
Silvan certainly has the batting power to get a much-needed win, but the bowling attack of Anderson, Jones, and Booth will be trying to make sure Mount Evelyn comes out on top.
In other cricket news, this Australia Day at the two Bayswater Cricket Grounds (Scoresby Road and Mountain Hwy, Bayswater), the YVCA is assisting in running the first Knox Tavern Super 8’s day. The teams taking part are Prahan and Ringwood from Melbourne Premier Cricket, Bayswater from the VSDCA, Buckley Ridges from Dandenong, Johnson Park and Upwey from the FTGDCA, and Yarra Glen and Seville from the YVCA. The day will support both the Australian Heart for Kids charity and the Foundation of Goodness from Sri Lanka. Further support will also be provided for the Victorian flood relief efforts. The action will start at 9am and will progress through the day until around 5pm for the final. A dinner will be held at the Knox Tavern from 7.30pm. Tickets are $35 for a meal and drinks. Call the YVCA on 0408 353 076 to make a booking.