Bacchus Marsh was thrilled to return to the cricket field as play in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association got underway on Saturday.
Playing in a different format and not for points, with the metro sides still unable to play, the Bulls took on fellow McIntyre Cup side Gisborne, in pool A of the regional club competition.
Romsey and Woodend make up the other two sides in the pool.
There are six pools in the club competition, with Bacchus Marsh and Gisborne fielding the most teams with five each. It’s hoped the normal season will start in November.
Speaking before the game, Bulls captain-coach James Lidgett said they were keen to return to the field.
He said it was a good opportunity to test themselves against some of the stronger teams in the competition.
“I’m very excited and other guys are just as excited to do something and get out of the house.
“We want to see how some other people will go, but we’ll also be taking it seriously and test ourselves out and give us our best preparation for the season.
“It’ll be good to see where we’re at,”
The Bulls weren’t at full strength on Saturday, with some players living in metro Melbourne areas and unable to play.
Lidgett said it gives them a chance to test some of their other players. He said they had an exciting crop of youngsters coming through who they were keen to see more of.
The Bulls who finished fourth last season, losing to Gisborne in a semi final, have a few changes to its side as it looks to remain a premiership contender.
Jared Taylor, who last played for the Bulls in the 2018-19 season returns to the club, while Kieran Atkin comes across from Wallan.
Atkin has also previously played with the Bulls, but had played for his home town in recent years.
“We’re all excited to have them back,” he said.
“I haven’t played with Kieran before, but I’ve spoken to him a few times on the phone. He’ll play closer to Christmas.
“Jarod I’ve known since I was about seven. We went to school together and we’re pretty good friends.”
Kasun Suriaratchie is the main confirmed out from last season. Lidgett said there were a couple of players who live in the metro region and they were unsure what they were doing.
“Once things settle down, we’ll have more of an idea.”
A strong Gisborne unit proved too good for the Bulls on Saturday.
The Bulls won the toss and elected to bat, making 5-162 from their 40 overs.
Taeje Baker top scored with 56, while Lidgett made 38.
Roby Lane took two wickets.
The Dragons made the runs with three overs to spare. Lachlan McKenna, who normally plays premier cricket, made 61.
Former under-19 Australia captain Pat McKenna, who has played little cricket in recent years, chipped in with 41 not out.
It was all single wicket takers for the Bulls.
In the Ballarat Cricket Association, Darley started the season with a win against Golden Point.
The Lions made 9-208 on the back of 72 from Danza Hyatt at the top of the order.
The knock included five sixes.
The Lions bowled Golden Point out for 160.
Madushanka Ekanayaka took three wickets for the Lions.
There are no BCA matches this weekend due to the AFL grand final.
