Dempsey smashed the Hawthorn-Monash University attack to all parts of Shepley Oval on his way to an unbeaten 98 that included eight sixes and six fours in the best display of power hitting seen in Premier Cricket in recent times.

Chasing the Hawks' 6-163, the Panthers, through Dempsey, cruised to 5-166 with 11 balls to spare.

Hawthorn all-rounder Steven Spoljaric hit a quick-fire 52 off just 33 balls and featured a reverse-sweep six in a skilful, entertaining match.

Former Lyndale Cricket Club junior Dale Tormey showed why is one of the competition's rising talents with 42 off 32 balls, while former Casey-South Melbourne English import, Chris Benham, chimed in with 39 off 29 that included three sixes.

Ricky Damiano (22) got the Panthers off to a bright start but the Hawks gained control after taking several quick wickets in dark, gloomy conditions.

Dempsey soon brightened things up and lifted the required run rate in a dominating display.

Former Hawks batsman Matthew Cox, who had only been cleared to the Panthers on Monday night, played in his first game against his old club and showed his class while batting with Dempsey at the end.

Day two of Hawthorn-Monash University's match against Carlton was washed out on Saturday. The Hawks take on St Kilda in a two-day match starting this weekend.