Match Preview
High Voltage vs Realism Ravens
match 5954103
Big Picture
In the context of Shield matches, this one’s big. A top of the table clash between two heavyweight teams with drastically different stories - a challenger with one of the most successful clubs in NZ history back in Div 1 after a 15 season absence; and a defender who has wasted no time building a reputation as the strongest team in NZ, if not the world.
The return of Realism Ravens to the top of the league after tumbling down the divisions several seasons ago is the feelgood story of the season so far. With a side yet to reach their full potential, there’s plenty more to look forward to for Ravens fans.
High Voltage have swept all before them in recent times, on their way to back to back Div 1 titles and a remarkable period of Shield dominance. Possessing one of the most fearsome squads to ever grace the game, it is hard to bet against them equalling the record for the longest Shield winning streak on Friday.
Legacy vs present; resurgent vs dominant; youth vs experience. This contest is not to be missed.
Team Profile
Realism Ravens
It is extraordinary to think that a team of the Ravens’ pedigree fell as low as Div 4. Many questioned if the club would ever return to their former glory, yet here they are not only back in Div 1, but leading the early running. Meticulous planning has seen Muff build a younger squad stacked with exciting talent. Whilst silverware may be a long shot this season, the likes of Caucaunibuca, Shah, and Chyer have been doing their best to give the team every opportunity. Ravens’ league success so far this season has been primarily built upon the exploits of fearsome fast bowling, but with Friday’s pitch expected to lack pace and bounce, there are questions around their effectiveness against quality opposition away from home. Their clearest road to victory would be for someone to go big with the bat, giving leg spinners Meadows and Thakar some RR pressure to play with.
Here is what Ravens’ manager Muff had to say ahead of the game:
“Jonoos team is at the very top of the FTP at the moment and deservedly so. However that comes with its own pressures. It has Jonooo looking over his shoulder, while simultaneously chasing that elusive Cup title. I can feel the nerves emanating from the High Voltage camp as he checks in on the Ravens camp more and more frequently. With the Ravens at the top of both senior leagues there is an opportunity to send a mild panic through High Voltage. The Ravens are playing with house money this season and are simply looking to rebuild the aura of fear that comes with taking on the Ravens. I look forward to the clash on Friday.”
There is no denying the Ravens come in as underdogs, but without the cup to focus on and the team high on confidence, an upset is a distinct possibility.
High Voltage
Has their ever been a NZ team more feared than this High Voltage side? Since ascending to the top flight in S48, they have swept all before them losing only 3 league matches in that time. However, one of those defeats did come in their last fixture, and balancing the league with tour weeks and a push for an elusive MKMC title is no small challenge for jonooo. It would be foolish to bet against this side though, with no obvious weaknesses anywhere. The only question marks this season is the team’s ability to score big runs against quality opposition. They are yet to bat first in the league this season and have not had to chase a total greater than 184 courtesy of some clinical bowling. Confidence may also have taken a hit after being bowled out in pursuit of just 167 last week. Given the quality of the squad you would back their batting to come good when needed, but they’ll be hoping their bowlers can come good once again.
Here is what High Voltage manager jonooo had to say ahead of the game:
“On the eve of playing the potential record breaking shield defence match, I think it's pretty special that I'm going up against Muff, the manager who currently holds the most total shield defences. I’m looking for the pitch to be nice and dry come game day, and it should bring the spinners into the game. Does that mean I'm scared of Muff's young seam bowling brigade? Maybe or maybe not. Time will tell.”
Victory on Friday would see High Voltage equal the record for the longest Shield winning streak with 11 consecutive defenses. Is too early to suggest this team could go on to build one of the great sporting dynasties?
Pitch/conditions
Currently the pitch is expected to be dry, with three spinners likely to feature for both sides. It is an intriguing pitch choice by jonooo. Pace bowling is arguably the strong suit of both these sides, but this will be negated somewhat by the conditions. Much attention will be on the spinners instead, who will have to adopt the wicket taking roles. Fine and sunny weather is forecast. Batting first and scoring 250+ would be on both team’s wishlist.
Players to watch
Lawrence Meadows
It’s hard to go past the battle between the leading leg spinners in either side. Still yet to turn 26, Meadows has developed into a consistent performer for the Ravens. Whilst he has some terrific bowlers around him, he will be called upon to lead the spin attack in these conditions.
Hud Sam
The leggie has been bossing it for both club and country for several seasons now. In just three league games this season, Sam has been near unplayable, taking 6 wickets at an average of 6 and an economy rate of just 1.95! The only wrist spinner in the High Voltage squad, there will be added pressure on Sam to be the main destroyer.
My pick
Despite the exciting talent in the Realism Ravens side, expect the all-round quality of High Voltage to come up trumps again on their way to a record Shield tenure.