Cricket Shepparton announced last week country week would go ahead early next year, with juniors set to butt heads from January 4-8.
Cricket Shepparton will field six boys outfits, along with under-14 and under-18 female sides — which will look to replicate the association's five wins at last year's event.
But before the tournament comes around, Cricket Shepparton will also host the Wangaratta Challenge next month.
The association's under-12, 13 and 14 boys and under-18 females will take to Mooroopna Recreation Reserve on December 13.
Junior representative co-ordinator James Woods was glad to see the week-long tournament return despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It's very exciting to have country week locked in for another year,” Woods said.
“At the moment restrictions make it challenging to organise selection trials, logistically it will be challenging. We have organised timeslots for each age group to accommodate the large numbers.”
For the first time in the association's history, the players will don sun smart uniforms to combat the summer heat.
Cricket Shepparton juniors will don long-sleeve shirts and broad brimmed hats.
“Having sun smart uniforms is something we have been wanting to introduce for a while now,” Woods said.
“It's a common sense approach, the days are hot and can be very long that time of year.
“Unfortunately, there will be a cost for these uniforms, but we hope to get sponsors for next year.”
Although the association is yet to name its sides, all age group coaches are locked in.
Owen Robertson (under-17), Woods (16), Steve Reeves (15), Chris Earl and Vince Gagliardi (14) and Shane Davidson (12) will manage their respective charges.
Selection trial sessions begin this Sunday for under-12, 13 and 14 boys.
“If you want to come along you can, you don't need to be nominated by your club, we just ask that you register before this Friday,” Woods said.
“Pre-registering is compulsory this year due to COVID-19.”
●To register, you can email jwoods68@bigpond.com to receive a registration form.
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