NIGHT games could be a great addition to the 2005/2006 senior cricket season if the Inverell Cricket Association has its way.

Recent upgrades to Varley Oval, including floodlights, could mean cricket sides could nominate for a night-time showcase competition in addition to the already existing one day and two day competitions.

New cricket association president Adam Woodbury said the proposed 20 over day-night games would allow cricketers a chance to sample Varley Ovals' new features.

"It would give everybody a go, because we have such great facilities we may as well use them," Woodbury said.

He also said the night games might be an attraction for spectators.

"If it goes ahead and parents and their families want to come down and have a look they'll be more than welcome."

Woodbury said the cricket association would try its hardest to get the day-night competition up and running but if it was not held this year it would happen the following season.

Meanwhile, the six nominated clubs for this year's regular competitions are ready to take to the field for the beginning of the season this Saturday.

Woodbury said not unlike other years, this season would be highly competitive.

"It should be a great season," he said.

"Everything should go like clockwork."

There has been little change to the lineup of teams compared to last season.

Scott Cole will once again lead Delungra, Troy Brabant will head Staggy Creek and Stuart Griffin will captain RSM.

Damien Smith will once again captain 2004 premiers Aussies and Matt Mair will lead the Royal Rats.

The only team change since last season will be the Empires side finishing up with many of the players going under the Oxford banner this year led by Simon Kirk.

Woodbury said most of the A grade sides and the seven reserve grade teams had been training up in the pre-season, including his side RSM, which had been meeting every Sunday for the past month.

© 2005 Inverell Times

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