NMCA 2018-19: Rivergum and Rosebank to meet in Jika Shield grand final

Rivergum may be chasing its fifth Jika Shield premiership in six seasons this weekend, but staying hungry is not an issue for the powerhouse — it is all a matter of perspective.

Veteran Alex Jesensek is one of Rivergum key players. Picture: Mark Dadswell

Rivergum may be chasing its fifth Jika Shield premiership in six seasons this weekend, but staying hungry is not an issue for the powerhouse — it is all a matter of perspective.

“We have had a lot of success but it hasn’t always been this way,” Kookas captain-coach Gary Bell said.

“We’ve had some down times.

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“Life’s pretty short. You need to enjoy the good times and understand that things can change.”

Bell credited stalwart Alex Jesensek, who has 313 runs to his name this season, for bringing and maintaining that appetite for success.

Rivergum celebrates last season’s Jika Shield premiership triumph. Picture: TIM MICHELL

“He is the best cricketer I have ever played with,” he said of the veteran batsman.

“At 50 years of age and with his batting. He is the best player the competition has ever seen and he is still so hungry for success.

“I’m thankful the amount of years I’ve played with him.

“He taught us … to not be happy with one premiership.

“Every time we go out there now, we have that mentality.

“It’s like that against every team. It’s not hatred, we just want to win all the time.”

Rivergum will take on Rosebank for the North Metro Cricket Association title — its opponent in the final for the seventh consecutive season — after toppling the Eagles by 98 runs in the major semi-final.

“I’m just really pleased,” Bell said ahead of another decider.

“A lot of sacrifices have been made by our boys.

“Even Daniel Young batting down the order. He could bat five or six at most clubs, could bowl more overs, but he has sacrificed his game to be part of the success.

“That story is there for every player of the team.

“They are a real pleasure to coach. It makes my job easier.”