REIGNING premier Mortlake will take a reshaped line-up into today’s South West Cricket top-of-the-table clash with Bookaar.
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The division one match is a blockbuster, with both teams undefeated and in good form.
But Mortlake skipper Todd Lamont said the Cats would be without all-rounder Clinton Baker, who is unavailable, and paceman James Cody-Davis, who is battling a persistent hip and groin complaint.
Lamont said teenage fast bowler Lachlan Wareham, veteran Craig Fowler and batsman Corey Mifsud would come into the side for the match at Camperdown Showgrounds.
Lamont said the Cats were looking forward to the clash, having been tested by Noorat last week. Noorat, Bookaar and the only other undefeated team, Terang, are looming as the major contenders to the Cats’ crown this season.
Mortlake plays Terang next week to complete a hat-trick of tough clashes. Lamont said Bookaar, a finalist last season, had the potential to go deep into the season.
“They have quite a young team. They have all been playing cricket together for a few years now. It’s only a matter of time before they start having a bit of success,” Lamont said.
“I’m not real sure what to expect. We saw Bookaar in the T20 but they have quite a few more players back this week.”
Lamont said Bookaar all-rounder Simon Baker would again be a key wicket, especially after his 99 last week.
“Last week against Noorat was important and this week will be no different. Next week too. I see all these three sides as pushing for finals. If we can get over this week, it will be good. You want to be tested.”
Bookaar is also unlikely be at full strength, with a couple heading to Flemington for Derby Day races.
In other games today, Terang hosts last season’s grand finalist Pomborneit, which is winless from the opening two matches.
Another side chasing its first win of the season is Heytesbury Rebels, which hosts fourth-placed Cobden, while Noorat will be looking to bounce back after last week’s loss to Mortlake when it plays bottom side Simpson.