The leading wicket taker in last year’s ODCA’s first grade premiership with 32 scalps at an average of 12.44, Novak has a steep climb ahead of him if he is to reach the same heights he enjoyed last summer.

There have been positive signs - Novak claimed 6-15 in November, just his second game back from a three-week suspension.

But the representative quick is desperate for more.

Looking to source the kind of rhythm that had opposition batsmen nervously taking guard 12 months ago, Novak is confident it’ll be full steam ahead for the rest of the summer for both himself and the red-hot CYMS.

“It’s been a slow start to the year for myself but everyone else has done the job, which takes a bit of pressure off me,” he said, with 11 wickets at 15.27 next to his name.

CYMS vice-captain Hamish Finlayson has bowled well this summer, nabbing 17 wickets.

Al Dhatt, too, is leading the way with 21 scalps at 9.71.

“I feel good, though, with the form I’m in,” Novak continued.

“I just want to take wickets.”

No doubt CYMS do as well.

And there’s no better time than today for the green and golds’attack to strike.

CYMS play defending premiers Orange City at Riawena Oval in a re-match of last year’s grand final.

Fully aware a win today won’t guarantee his side any silverware, Novak was hoping a victory would serve as a psychological blow in the race for the 2013-14 two-day crown.

“Certainly if we can beat City, one of the teams that are right up there and favourites to win the comp, then I think it’ll give us a huge boost,” he said.

“We’ve just been sticking to our main goals, which has always been train hard, bowl in partnerships, bat in partnerships and field really well.”

CYMS and City will rekindle their rivalry from 1pm today.