The Ballarat Cricket Association has requested feedback from clubs to help decide on the format of the first grade competition.
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Two options are being considered for next season, with clubs asked to provide preferences by July 21.
The key difference in the two options is whether or not Twenty20 fixtures are incorporated into the regular premiership season or played as part of a standalone competition.
Last season, the BCA held a separate T20 league to determine the side that moved through to the regional championships.
“With a bye again in the fixtures and the significant feedback regarding a ‘lack of cricket’ and ‘the players hate not playing cricket’ etc from last season, the board are again offering two options in an attempt to maximise the number of days being played for the first XI,” a letter from the BCA to clubs reads.
“The board has considered that it is critical the structure/draw for the first XI competition must be arranged prior to reviewing further down the grades. It is intended that the second and third XI fixtures be in line, as much as is possible, with the first XI draw.”
OPTION 1
- Nine two-day rounds - each team to have one bye during those rounds, playing eight matches across 16 days.
- Nine T20 rounds - each team to have one bye during those rounds, playing eight matches across four days. Three matches each on one available Saturday (Super Saturday including a night match) and two matches each on three additional Sundays.
- Each match played for premiership points, contributing to a T20 ladder and overall season ladder.
- T20 finals series, with the premiers to represent Ballarat in the regional T20 tournament.
OPTION 2
- Nine two-day rounds - each team to have one bye during those rounds, playing eight matches across 16 days. One or two rounds will have to be Saturday/Sunday matches.
- Three one-day rounds - each team to have one bye during those rounds, playing two matches across two days. One or two rounds will have to be Sunday matches.
- Should option two be preferred, a separate T20 competition will be required.