Popular former Test cricketer Kerry O’Keefe has agreed to be the team’s patron and watched on in round one as the Stags matched up against their clubmates, the Bowral Bulls.

Stags captain Greg Moore said his team was thrilled to have Kerry O’Keefe in attendance, although it was unfortunate the Stags couldn’t provide him with a win.

The Stags are off to a slow start, with two losses from the first two games.

In what is shaping up as a close season, last year’s semi-finalists Mittagong have won both of their opening matches to be on top of the third grade table.

The Lions met Hill Top last week in a high-scoring game at Welby Oval.

Mittagong batted first and amassed 200 off 36 overs.

Number four batsman Daniel Fairbairn scored 54, while captain Cameron Arlington was not out on 30.

Shane Milat was the pick of Hill Top’s bowlers with 4-28.

Hill Top put in a good chase but were all out for 183 as they pushed to reach the large total.

Mark Williams, Ben Trevisiol and Ben Molloy picked up two wickets each for the Lions.