One of the big surprises is the decision by talented Brown Hill all-rounder Ryan Knowles to shift camp to Ballarat-Redan.

Knowles has a strong family connection with the Bulls but will now headline the Ballarat-Redan line-up this season with its coach Chris Bambury.

Ballarat-Redan, however, needs Knowles as it has had several shock losses with the potentially match-winning Cameron Landry out with a long-term shoulder injury.

The Combine has lost all-rounder Matt Hoey whose spin bowling and ability to craft a big innings will be missed.

Also, opening pace bowler Jarrod Allan remains overseas and fellow trump bowler Jason Yean has retired.

North Ballarat has secured some English talent with top-order batsman Andrew Hirst and left-arm medium pacer Tom Hall joining the Northies.

Darley has recruited top-order batsman Terry Olney from Hopper's Crossing and a handy leg spinner in Graham Elander from Port Melbourne.

Napoleons-Sebastopol has lost five top-order players including three to Premier League - captain Alex Cairns, young gun Chris Banwell and all-rounder Travis Faulkhead. North Ballarat's Bobby Hind is also trying his hand

with North Melbourne.

Golden Point has picked up some talent in wicketkeeper David Horwood (Melbourne sub-districts) and medium pacer Dean Chester from Portland.