One of CYMS' off-season recruits believes the Cougars are primed to be big improvers in the 2014/15 Whitney Cup.

The Dubbo season begins today with the start of two-day games in both first and second grade, while third grade will remain in the one-day only format from start to finish.

Ryan Medley, who linked with the Cougars after being part of Rugby's premiership in 2013/14, said he anticipates a much more even spread among the six clubs this year.

"There's no doubt CYMS battled a bit last year, they didn't win a game, but hopefully we can turn things around this year and it starts on Saturday against Colts," he said.

"The thing that really struck me last season from playing against CYMS was that even though they weren't winning games they were a tight-knit bunch of blokes that still enjoyed their cricket and turned up every week.

"That appeals to me and it was a big reason why I left Rugby to come to CYMS. It sounds like a pretty even comp with some teams losing blokes so I think we're all looking forward to it."

With Englishman Stuart Naden also set to don a baggy green this season, and former captain Ben Strachan returning to the fold at same stage, CYMS will gain some much-needed firepower with both bat and ball.

It is hoped the inclusion of players with the level of experience the new trio has will help the club develop the killer instinct needed to win games.

"There were times last year when they were in winning positions but just couldn't get over the line.

"We're not coming in as saviours or anything but hopefully we can just help out and be part of the culture they have already built."

CYMS will face Colts at No.3 Oval, while in the other matches to be contested over the next two weeks Newtown will play Rugby at Lady Cutler 2, and Souths will battle Macquarie at No.2 Oval.