Wests well on way to victory

WESTS are in the box seat to start their Townsville Cricket season on a winning note as they resume batting at Mick Downey Oval on 2/ 26 chasing Brothers’ first day target of 106.

Off- season recruit Sean Farrelly bowled Wests into prime position last weekend with his nine- over spell of 3/ 10, while club stalwarts Jaymie Dunlop ( 2/ 23) and Sean Curnow ( 2/ 37) also stood tall in their team’s consistent bowling display.

Lindsay McKell ( 31), Liam McKell ( 23) and Heath O’Brien ( 17) provided resistance for Brothers, but the Brethren now face an uphill battle despite early wickets from Brendan Haylett ( 1/ 7) and Heath O’Brien ( 1/ 4).

Australian Country representative Tony Hampson ( 19 no) and Adrian West ( 2 no) resume batting for Wests.

“It’s just a matter of setting ourselves a good platform and going on with it,” Wests opener Ari Smith.

“It’s good that the season is under way again and last weekend was more about getting into the groove.

“There’s a lot of good batting in the sheds and we go all the way to No. 11, so we’re obviously very confident of getting a result.”

Wests have entered season 2017- 18 with Sean Curnow as their new skipper, which West believes could bring new challenges for rival teams.

“A change of leadership brings new things and Sean’s obviously pretty excited for the role,” West said.

Saints have been set a challenging 181- run target by Wanderers at JCU Oval, with Saints starting the second session at 2/ 37.

Norths ( 5/ 97) are on the verge of claiming a first- round win against defending premiers Suburban Parks, who were bowled out last weekend for 127.

Matches resume at 12.30pm.