ON a day that saw six centuries hit in the top two grades, Johnson Park made a strong statement as Bryn Gaunt led the Sharks to 3-395 against Rowville in the Knox Tavern Cup.
Gaunt, a Victorian Country XI opener, top scored making 172 before being dismissed in the 60th over.
He struck 25 fours and four sixes in a chanceless innings which included a 266-run first-wicket stand with Steve Bowen. Bowen, a Victorian under-21 representative, who made 110, was promoted to opener after the late withdrawal of Mal Edward Francis due to injury.
Eildon Park also amassed a large score, closing the day on 8-383 and taking the points over Mountain Gate. Shane and Cameron Cosstick both made tons as the Panthers won by 265runs over the Gators.
Shane Richardson scored his maiden century as Ferntree Gully posted 4-259 in reply to Upper Ferntree Gully's 150. The Blues' bats didn't seem troubled by the Kings' bowlers.
Upwey proved too strong for St John's Tecoma, posting its first win of the season at the Dome. With wickets failing steadily, the Saints made hard work of the chase.
Monbulk walked away from its encounter with Lysterfield with the points in its pocket after dismissing the strong Beaver batting line-up for 169. In the final game, Belgrave opened its account, defeating The Basin.
A strong batting performance last week laid the groundwork for the Magpies as they dismissed the Huntsmen for 110.