Rain washed out day one of the Bairnsdale Cricket Association’s (BCA) final round last Saturday forcing the matches to revert to a one-day format this weekend.
It shapes up as an intriguing round with multiple scenarios still possible before the final four and their order are confirmed for semi-final action.
Clubs face the risk of missing opportunities to push into the top four or improve their ladder positions if the weather intervenes again.
With the one-day format, winning sides will secure six points, removing the possibility of maximum points.
Orbost moved back into the top four with victory last round over Meerlieu.
Their task is simple – beat Lakes Entrance at the Lakeside Oval and they will be back among the finals action after a two-year hiatus.
If they lose, the Seagulls will go above them and possibly Lucknow who will play Meerlieu at Meerlieu Cricket Ground.
The Blues will head to Lakes Entrance confident their form is peaking at the right time of year, helping to shape their path into the 2025–26 finals.
They made a massive score on day one against the Tussocks, highlighted by a big century from Jayden Price and took 17 wickets on day two.
Matches between Orbost and Lakes Entrance are traditionally close contests, with both sides eager for bragging rights over their nearest cricketing neighbours.
The stakes are huge this time, with the local derby almost serving as a semi-final.
The Seagulls were also impressive with the bat last round, with skipper Jake Le Maitre leading the charge with a century against Paynesville.
There is plenty of variety in both bowling attacks, and fielding will be vitally important.
The Seagulls will not be able to give Orbost as many lives as they did Paynesville last week if they are to get the points.
Hopefully, the weather will behave and the final spot in the top four will be decided out in the middle.
Orbost unfortunately had to forfeit for the second consecutive week in “B” grade, they are scheduled to play West Bairnsdale in this week’s final round at the Orbost Recreation Reserve.
