Big changes in WGCA

By Ian Ferguson
THE structure of West Gippsland junior cricket will alter significantly when the willow first meets the ball at the start of the 200607 season.
The under12, under14 and under16 format will no longer apply, with local clubs opting instead to field under 11, under13, under15 and under17 teams. This new structure is recommended by the Victoria Cricket Pathways development program, and is the structure most associations now follow.
There have also been senior leadership changes at Devon Meadows. Club stalwart and star batsman Darren O’Brien has taken over the coaching mantle from Danny Diwell, who will probably play cricket with Cranbourne this summer. The Panthers have also lost Craig Boswell, with the leftarm opening bowler being appointed as captaincoach of Merinda Park in 200607.
The Cobras, along with other WGCA clubs, have reportedly lost several key players.
An analysis of changes at all senior clubs, along with their prospects of success for the new season, will be presented in the preseason review before the first games start on Saturday 7 October.
Affiliations for the coming season need to be lodged at the next WGCA delegates’ meeting this Wednesday, 29 August, at the Officer Cricket Club.
The meeting begins at 8pm.