Tom Kohler-Cadmore helped Penrith Panthers step up their Sydney Grade Cricket first grade title hopes with a half century in the five wicket win over visiting Hawkesbury.
The Worcestershire batsman switched from his accustomed spot at the top of the order to a number four role to enable Penrith to put a new opening partnership together before he returns to New Road.
But Kohler-Cadmore was still able to make a sizeable contribution in the number four spot as Penrith chased down a 269 target on day two to keep the pressure on Bankstown and Sydney in the race for honours.
Hawkesbury resumed on 225-8 and were eventually bowled out for 268 in 99.5 overs.
Kohler-Cadmore came to the wicket at 140-2 after the new opening combination of J DiBartolo – who hit 100 off 81 balls – and L. Morrissey (32) put on 132 before both fell in quick succession.
The former Malvern College pupil added 62 with M. Hopkins (31) and 49 with T. Cummins (17) to ensure the good work of the openers was not wasted.
Kohler-Cadmore was eventually dismissed for 64 off 103 balls with one six and nine fours with just 10 required for victory.
It took his run tally in first grade cricket to 483 at an average of 60.38 this winter with two hundreds and two half centuries.
Penrith collected six points from their victory as they bounced back from the disappointment of bowing out of the 50 over competition at the semi-final stage to holders Bankstown.
