Beaten in their opening Twenty20 match, Keira head to Helensburgh to kick start the first grade competition with a one-dayer.

The teams last met at Figtree Oval, when Keira chased down Helensburgh’s 174 to qualify to the decider, where they were beaten by 10 wickets, following a dominant batting display from David Murphy and Luke McGregor.

Keira emerged as a surprise packet last season when they returned to the big stage without batsman Graeme Batty and all-rounder Jono Cook. 

“We probably surprised a few,” Johnston said. “It’s a pretty similar group and I think we can be right up there again, as much as it was a disappointing end to the season.

“It will take a few weeks to have a settled squad, but everyone is in the same boat.

“It was a really close, competitive semi against Helensburgh, no doubt they’ll be keen to avenge last year’s result, so it will be a tough test.” 

Beaten by Uni in the opening Twenty20, the premiers Balgownie launch their defence against Northern Districts.

ILLAWARRA 

Round one (one-dayer)

Saturday (12pm)

UNIVERSITY v DAPTO at University Oval, WESTS v PORT KEMBLA at Figtree Oval, NORTHERN DISTRICTS v BALGOWNIE at Hollymount Park, WOLLONGONG v CORRIMAL at North Dalton Park, HELENSBURGH v KEIRA at Rex Jackson Oval.