Ballarat Cricket Association president Rob Florence has urged clubs and players to do the right thing and not jeopardise the competition this season.
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With no launch function this year, Florence posted a note to the BCA community on Facebook on Friday, declaring the 2020-21 season officially underway.
He reiterated some key points for participants and thanked clubs for providing a copy of their COVID-safe plans to the association, but restated the importance of sticking to the rules in place.
"It is apparent that clubs and players have accepted the fact that it is a privilege to get to play cricket and the board stresses the need to continue on with that thought, and not undertake any actions or activities - on or off the field - that may jeopardise the continuation of our season and compromise the health and well-being of the community," Florence wrote.
"It has taken a number of us a long time to get over the need to cancel our grand finals last season. We do not want to face such a decision just because some have not followed the COVID-19 protocols and safeguards."
The BCA released a document on Sunday detailing the key hygiene measures that will be in place for all grades of junior and senior cricket.
The protocols alter the way the game has been played for much of its existence, with habitual practices such as shining the ball with saliva or sweat now classed as an infringement and may incur a five-run penalty.
"We are about to commence a season that seems to be a long time coming and one that will be like no other," Florence wrote.
"In the current environment that is indeed a privilege and a situation that we must all not take for granted. We must ensure that we do all that is required to play the games we play in the safest and controlled manner in which we have been recommended the games should be played.
"We must heed the advice of relevant authorities and bodies, and ensure compliance - without question - with the protocols and regulations that are in place.
"But, in all that, may I encourage all involved to take advantage of the privilege we have to play cricket and enjoy yourselves as you play the game we love."
The BCA board has locked in the first part of the fixture, but will meet during December to formulate matches following the mid-season break.
All five senior grades will commence Saturday with the firsts' grand final showdown between Darley and Golden Point - which was cancelled earlier in the year - the highlight. Juniors will then begin in late October.