URGENT UPDATE: The start of the Bendigo District Cricket Association’s (BDCA) senior season has been delayed by one week, moving from its original date of October 4, 2023, to allow for crucial wicket preparation. This decision was confirmed by BDCA officials on Friday, citing weather conditions as a primary factor.
BDCA President Travis Harling explained that ongoing junior football finals have hindered the necessary maintenance on the cricket pitches. “Our wickets won’t be ready; there’s a couple that have been impacted by junior footy finals, so they have only just had a chance to be top-dressed,” Harling stated. “It’s unfortunate, but with the way the weather has been, we can’t do much about it.”
Following this announcement, the BDCA board will convene on Monday night to assess whether the originally planned two-day fixture for round one will be adjusted to a one-day format. “It’s probably most likely what we’ll do,” Harling added, emphasizing the importance of giving curators ample time to prepare the pitches without the pressure of an imminent start.
The matches originally scheduled for round one include high-stakes games such as Sandhurst vs. Strathdale-Maristians, Kangaroo Flat vs. White Hills, and Bendigo United vs. Strathfieldsaye. Each team is set to compete in a 12-round season, featuring nine two-day matches and three one-day games.
In related news, the Emu Valley Cricket Association (EVCA) season is set to kick off next weekend, with its division one competition welcoming back West Bendigo, bringing the total to nine teams. The EVCA division one season will also unfold over 12 rounds, with teams playing ten games—eight two-day and two one-day matches.
As the BDCA navigates these changes, the cricket community is urged to stay tuned for updates. The decision on the match format and further details will be clarified after the board meeting on Monday. Fans and players alike are encouraged to share this news to keep everyone informed about the latest developments in local cricket.
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