Dubbo Cricket Association president Jeff Shanks is predicting the 2018/19 season will be a monumental one for players and spectators alike.
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The first grade Dubbo RSL Whitney Cup and second grade Dubbo RSL Pinnington Cup will field six full teams and the third grade Dubbo RSL Kelly Cup will have 13 teams.
“All three competitions will begin on October 6 and this is the most players that we’ve ever had competing,” Mr Shanks said.
“The players have excellent facilities to play on with seven turf wickets all in great nick, as are the synthetic wickets, we pay a significant ground fee levy and as a result, the council makes sure we have top quality ovals and pitches.
“Our facilities are great for attracting significant carnivals which is good for the town.”
Mr Shanks said spectators should see some top quality cricket played this season.
“It’s going to be an interesting season because there are some personnel changes with sides that could even up the competition,” he said.
“Last year South and Rugby played in the final but Jordon Moran who scored a double century in the game has left town and top bowler Ben Patterson has moved from Rugby to Newtown, so Rugby may come back to the field a little bit.
“Based on history the RSL Colts will be a team to watch, they've always got a strong roster and I’d keep an eye on them, they’re my early favourite to win the cup, but it should be a close competition in first grade because there is a lot of talent at each of the clubs.”
Mr Shanks said this season would also be the last that wearing helmets whilst batting is optional.
“Next season wearing batting helmets becomes compulsory, but we encourage all our players to start wearing them this season every time they are facing up,” he said.
“Anyone under 16 must wear a helmet now and in 12 months time it will be mandated so players should get used to wearing them now.
“It’s all about player safety, we acknowledge that Dubbo summers are scorching and the weather has played a part in some resistance to wearing them, but player safety is of paramount importance to the Association.”
Craig Thomson
I am a media and communications professional with experience across print, digital, social and radio broadcasts. I am currently the Editor of Australian Community Media's Launceston Examiner.
I am a media and communications professional with experience across print, digital, social and radio broadcasts. I am currently the Editor of Australian Community Media's Launceston Examiner.
