With NSW starting to come out of lockdown, I wanted to give everyone an update on how the cricket season is looking. None of this is yet locked in and could easily change, especially if government health guidelines change.

Season Dates and Format

Based on likely dates for reaching the 80% vaccination threshold, we expect community sport will be allowed to resume from late October and we anticipate the NSW Premier Cricket competition starting on either November 13 or 20.

With the shortened season, the competition is likely to be all one day games, apart from 1st grade which may have a couple of Saturday / Sunday 2 day games (TBD). The Kingsgrove T20 competition will be played (but possibly with fewer matches). Poidevin Gray is likely to be mainly T20 fixtures played as double headers with the 1st grade T20 competition. The Green Shield season will be held as per normal over the December / January period.

Pre-Season

We are aiming to commence full club practice (Tuesday PM, Thursday PM and Saturday AM) from the date that community sport is allowed to resume (late October). In the period between the 70% and 80% vaccination thresholds we are allowed to gather outdoor in groups of no more than 20. Accordingly, during this period (from mid to late October) we will look to have some small practice sessions and trials – with staggered timing and venues for different parts of the club. Details on the timing and venues for pre-season will be communicated as soon as possible.

COVID and Vaccination

The club will have a COVID safety plan that will include check-in using QR codes. Consistent with government requirements, in the period up to December 1, all players, coaches, officials and volunteers will need to be vaccinated to attend both games and practice. We are awaiting guidance on the approach to vaccination post December 1. We urge everyone at the club to be vaccinated – for your own health, the health of your clubmates, and so you are able to play.

Registrations

All players are asked to register as soon as possible, and ideally this weekend. Go the the Player Registration Page under the Players Menu on the website. Registration does not commit you to play, so we ask all players wanting to play at Gordon (both returning and new) to register ahead of the pre-season practice and trials. Having a complete list of player registrations is important for us in planning the preseason activities. Please do your bit by registering early. Given the shortened season and challenging economic times, fees have been reduced this season. Please note that fees are not required to be paid at this stage (just select offline fee option when you register).

Team App

Team App is the primary way we communicate to players on things such as practice, team selections , wet weather etc. Can all players please ensure they have Team App and that your details are up to date.

 

Its been a long wait but the season start is now around the corner and we have an exciting season ahead. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone once pre-season practice gets underway.

Michael Cant

GDCC President