Perth Scorchers batsman Hilton Cartwright has paid tribute to Michael Klinger but it remains to be seen whether the veteran will make a late dash to Melbourne to face the Renegades.
Klinger missed the season-opening BBL win over the Sydney Sixers after his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, and he made just one in his return to action against the Melbourne Stars on Tuesday night.
The 37-year-old didn't join his teammates on their flight to Melbourne on Wednesday, having already stated he is likely to miss some games this season to be with his wife.
The away games are those Klinger is expected to be unavailable for.
But he is still an outside chance to make a later flight to Melbourne in time to play in Friday night's top-of-the-table clash at Etihad Stadium.
Cartwright said Klinger's calming influence played a key role in the 13-run win over the Stars, who failed to chase down a victory target of 143.
Cartwright made a snail-paced start to his innings, registering just three runs from his first 13 balls.
But some words of encouragement from Klinger at the non-striker's end eventually got him out of his funk, with Cartwright going on to make 58 off 53 balls in a man-of-the-match display.
"Having 'Maxy' back in the team gave a lot of guys a lot of confidence," Cartwright said.
"Even myself, I was none off about seven or eight balls.
"I've only played two games batting at three.
"So to have him down the other end to coach me through -- not panicking, no need to worry about the scoreboard -- really puts your mind at ease really quickly."
Scorchers paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile is set to miss another game while he builds his way back to full fitness from a back injury.
But fellow speedster Joel Paris is a chance to play after making the trip east.
The Scorchers are yet to truly fire with the bat this season but their bowling line-up has been exceptional.
Andrew Tye has been the standout performer, snaring nine wickets in two matches.
He took 5-23 in a match-winning display against the Stars, and Cartwright was in awe of his teammate.
"I don't know how he does it," Cartwright said.
"Every game he seems to come in and drag us back into the contest."
Tye lavished praise on the bowling group and said he hoped to have Klinger in the side for a few more games this season.
"What he has gone through is just heartbreaking," Tye said.
"If he ever needs anything, or if he ever just needs a hug, we'll be there for them."
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