Lightning desperate to strike finals blow

FINALS will begin a round early for Lindisfarne and University when the two CTPL clubs square off in a virtual elimination final in the last roster match of the season from today.

In an exciting finale before the semi-finals in a fortnight, Lindisfarne (fourth) is a point in front of University (fifth) ahead of its trip to the Lions’ den. First innings points will ensure a spot in the top four for the victor, and with all of the state squad batsmen available at least for day one, the clash is destined for a grandstand finish.

Ben McDermott will lead a Lightning unit bolstered by the return of Sheffield Shield debutant Jarrod Freeman and travelling squad member Mac Wright, with coach Matt Wilkie declaring the battle between his batsmen and the home side’s attack likely to determine the outcome.

“You couldn’t ask for a better way to try and qualify for finals, try and prove you deserve a spot in there,” Wilkie said. “If we don’t win we don’t deserve to be in there, it is as simple as that. Both us and Uni have had some good results this year so it is fitting there is a playoff to get in.

“We have been good in the longer form of the game this year ... we just have to bat well against their strong bowling line-up.”

A last-round loss to North Hobart saw the Lions slip from second to fifth, and the side will call upon the experience of James Faulkner, especially with the bat, to match the Lightning.

Clarence can’t be shifted from top spot, but its clash with South Hobart-Sandy Bay at Queenborough still has a huge bearing on the make-up of the top four. The host sits ahead of North Hobart by only percentage, leaving second — and a home semi — firmly up for grabs.

The Demons will be favoured to defeat cellar dweller Glenorchy at KGV, meaning the Sharks will need to topple the Roos to stay ahead.

Kingborough and New Town meet at the Twin Ovals in the remaining match of the round.