This weekend's RSL-Whitney Cup grand final features two sides loaded with individual talent.
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As often is the case in deciders, a piece of magic from one player could make all the difference.
Last season it was Jordan Moran and his magical double hundred, prior to that the likes of Ben Taylor, Jacob Bruce and Jarrod Simpson have all produced starring roles in the biggest game of the year.
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Here's five players who could swing the match in their side's favour this weeked:
Ben Patterson (Newtown)
No surprises here. If one player is going to win this grand final on their own, it's Patterson. The NSW Country representative has the ability with both bat and ball to change a game in the blink of an eye.
As hard a hitter of the ball as anyone in the west, Patterson won't back down against any of the Colts bowlers while with the ball he has the ability to rattle an otherwise composed Colts lineup.
A genuine star.
Tom Atlee (RSL-Colts)
Not far behind Patterson in the all-rounder stakes. The 18-year-old red-head has come on in leaps and bounds this season and is now regarded by everyone as one of the leading cricketers in Dubbo.
A back complaint has slightly affected the pace off his bowling recently but he'll still take the ball at every opportunity this weekend. With the bat, he's unlikely to change the game as quickly as Patterson could, but he can dig in and provide a real rock in the middle order for Colts.
Ben Semmler (RSL-Colts)
Bowls long spells, bowls them well, and rarely goes for a lot of runs. That's all you need to know really. Something of an unsung hero at Colts, this match is really made for someone like Semmler.
Newtown like to score quickly and if Semmler can get the ball moving around early he could really carve up.
Dan Holland (Newtown)
Maybe somewhat of a surprise to see him here but anyone who has seen Holland in full flight at ther top of the order would understand. An incredibly hard hitter of the ball, Holland usually flashes while fellow Newtown opening bat Wayne Dunlop digs in.
If Holland can stay at the crease for 20 overs this weekend, the runs will flow.
Wes Giddings (RSL-Colts)
Veteran who won't get flustered but will get under Newtown's skin. Giddings has been here and done it all so many times before.
His position in the batting lineup may be different, but he'll still come out and go on the attack no matter who is bowling.
His left-arm orthodox spin also provides something different and he could easily tie down the Tigers batsmen.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
