It's been seven long years since the Illawarra Hawks last contested an NBL grand final series. But after stunning the Adelaide 36ers in Adelaide, they are now back in the big dance as history beckons.

Thank God that Australia has a finals system, Melbourne City coach Michael Valkanis declared after his 10-man team had eventually capitulated to league leaders Sydney 3-1 on Friday night.

Graham Arnold and his Sydney team have ticked off their first box.

Port Macquarie trainer Jenny Graham is hoping that her battle with the talented Portatorio will become distant meories after Sunday's Country Championship at Taree.

NSW have omitted Nic Maddinson from their side for the Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania, despite the former Test batsman returning to the squad after a break from the game.