You could forgive Rivergum for taking it easy in the North Metro Cricket Association’s Jika Shield.
After claiming the last two premierships, the Kookaburras are unbeaten in the current season and are on track for a third successive flag.
But instead of getting complacent, the side is instead making sure all players are getting opportunities with both bat and ball.
Captain-coach Gary Bell said that trying to keep players fresh while ensuring they were enjoying their cricket had been a big focus in recent weeks.
“We mixed things up a bit in the two games on the weekend and the game last week,” he said.
“We want everyone to enjoy themselves a bit before finals.
“Everyone is getting a go, otherwise the same players would get a chance and the others could get bored and lose a bit of edge.”
Despite the changes in batting and bowling orders, the results continue to go Rivergum’s way and they won both their weekend matches. .
On Saturday, they beat Olympic Colts, who made 9-135 after being sent in to bat at Kelynack Reserve.
Daniel Young and Daniel Bramich each took three wickets for Rivergum.
In reply, they made 5-137 with Sean Neary top-scored with 52 as Rivergum made 5-137.
Backing up on Sunday, Rivergum easily defeated Holy Trinity away at John Hall Reserve.
Bell top-scored with 53 in Rivergum’s 208, with Holy Trinity making only 79 in response.
Five bowlers each took two wickets.
“It was good to get the last of the one-day matches out of the way and we can look forward to the two-dayers, which are more like finals,” Bell said.
“Everyone has to play in their normal positions for at least one of those two games.”
After tasting success in the last two years, Bell said the players were hanging out for finals, as only a stark contrast in form would see the Kookaburras slip from top spot in the remaining rounds.
“We’ve learnt that form in the season counts for little come finals time,” Bell said.
“We will continue to practise and learn. You can always learn.
“The other sides love the challenge of trying to beat us and we have to be good enough to handle the pressure. Being able to handle the pressure helps us come finals time.”
Rivergum has its eyes on a third Northern T20 region premiership, and they meet Lalor Stars in the quarter-finals on Tuesday night.
“We have a proud record in the competition and we’re the only multiple winner,” Bell said.
“We take this competition seriously and believe it helps improve our Saturday cricket.
“You’re under pressure the whole time and you can find yourself in those situations where you need wickets or runs quickly.
“We want to win the competition and be the first three-time winner.”
