The two teams finished first and second on the ladder, but will go into the grand final on the back of contrasting semi-finals last weekend.

Bendigo United's brilliant form continued when it disposed of Strathdale with ease by seven wickets, while Golden Square was content to settle for a rain-affected draw against Eaglehawk.

Hopefully, it's a QEO grand final that lasts a lot longer than last year's game between Strathdale and Eaglehawk that was over inside two hours on day two.

ND: Am really looking forward to this contest.

Both line-ups have batsmen in form, and Bendigo United's attack was superb in the semi-final.

The Redbacks' bowlers face a huge task against batsmen the calibre of Scott Johnson, Grant Connelly, Jake Higgins, Tim Wood and more.

LW: You mentioned Golden Square's Jake Higgins.

He's only 18, but you would have thought he was a seasoned veteran with the way he batted in last week's semi-final against Eaglehawk in occupying the crease for almost 400 minutes to steer his side out of an awkward position.

Personally, I like Bendigo United to win the flag this weekend.

I think they're at their absolute peak at the right time of the season, whereas Golden Square - and I know they were happy to play for a draw last week - haven't won their past two games.

The Redbacks look to have more match-winners with the bat, headed by Pinniger, Gunn and Behrens and can also spread the load with the ball.

Take nothing away from Golden Square, you don't fluke finishing 17 points clear at the top of the ladder, but I reckon they may need Darren Clutton to have a day out with the ball like he did against BUCCs earlier in the season for them to win.

Then again, the great strength of Golden Square has been 11 blokes playing their role week in, week out, which is what they'll need again this weekend.

ND: An amazing feat by BUCCs star Heath Behrens to be playing in his 10th first XI grand final.

"Puggo" has dominated in many big matches over the years, so his wicket will be a crucial one.

An incredible run by Golden Square to be unbeaten until the final round clash with Strathdale-Maristians.

Agree completely in that Square has had many players contribute each week. 

LW: Games between Golden Square and Bendigo United tend to throw up something out of the ordinary, so hopefully, it's the case again and we get another of those cracking matches between the clubs.

ND: Have recovered from my bout of shingles, but I don't want this to be too nerve-wracking. History suggests it's likely to be.   

LW: Shingles... keep away from me then.