Cape Town - Half-centuries by by Dominic Hendricks and Stephen Cook helped the Highveld Lions reach stumps on 244 for seven on day one of their Sunfoil Series clash against the Knights in Kimberley.
Hendricks top scored with 80 off 185 deliveries, while captain Cook continued his impressive form this season by following up back-to-back centuries with 76 off 154 balls.
The Lions, who won the toss and opted to bat first, did lose wickets in clusters, which stifled their progress at the Diamond Oval.
Tumi Masekela was the key bowler for the hosts, grabbing four for 34, while there was a wicket apiece for Malusi Siboto, Mbulelo Budaza and Jandre Coetzee.
The visitors made a solid start by reaching 54 without loss, before Rassie van der Dussen (11) and Yassar Cook (14) fell quickly.
A 53-run stand between Hendricks and Cook followed, before the skipper and Shaylen Pillay (nought) were dismissed within two overs.
Another partnership of 87 between Nicky van den Bergh (34) and Hendricks was next, followed by three more toppling as the home side ended the day stronger.