After defeating The Rail in last year’s decider, Lake Illawarra will be gunning for their second-straight one-day crown, while Oak Flats are seeking their first one-day title since 2015. 

With both teams boasting talented batting lineups, Lakers captain Mark Ulcigrai expects the match will come down to who takes their opportunities in the field. 

“We’re two very evenly matched teams across the park, whether it’s batting or bowling, so it’s going to be a great final,” Ulcigrai said.

“Fielding will be key. It could be the difference between chasing 150 to 200 and chasing 300. Both teams can score freely, so the bowling and fielding will probably determine the outcome.”

The two teams faced off in a one-day fixture in round four, with Lake Illawarra claiming a comprehensive victory. After reaching 8-297, the Lakers bowled Oak Flats out for 165. 

Rats captain Scott McAndrew knows his team must bowl better if they are to have any chance of pulling off the upset win. 

“We’ve definitely learned some lessons from that game,” McAndrew said. “We couldn’t build any pressure with the ball, and when they bowled they put us under pressure and we got in trouble taking risks. 

“They go in as favourites, but I’m confident if we do play our best, we definitely have a big chance. We’ll have our best team on the field, everyone’s looking forward to the match.”