The countdown has begun until the 2016/17 season begins in October.

In the lead-up, the Highlands District Cricket Association (HDCA) has announced big changes could be coming in the next few years.

The HDCA recently re-instated John Morris as chairman for the 2016/17 season.

Morris said he was pleased to remain in the position.

“I’m prepared to do it for another season to build on what we achieved last season,” he said.

Morris said the HDCA had put together a strategic framework plan for 2016 through to 2020.

The HDCA has worked with club representatives to implement the framework.

Morris said plans included reducing the number of clubs in the Highlands to six.

Morris said Mittagong, Bowral and Moss Vale would be among the six clubs.

“We are starting the conversation to pursue over the coming seasons,” he said.

“We’d have it established by 2018/19 ideally.

“But there is a lot of spade work that needs to be done to continue to grow and foster cricket in the Southern Highlands.”

Morris said another key issue was the lack of turf wickets available in the Highlands.

He said there were currently only three turf facilities at Bradman Oval, Welby Oval and Moss Vale’s Lackey Park.

Morris said the HDCA was in discussion with Wingecarribee Shire Council about ideal locations for more turf wickets.

“Turf wickets can help us attract Country NSW Association competitions,” he said.

“We would also need to train curators and get new covers for the turf wickets.” 

The HDCA will hold a captains meeting and season launch at the Bradman Theatrette on September 26.

Special guest will be former Australian and NSW cricketer Geoff Lawson.

Morris said the event would include a discussion on possible rule changes for the upcoming junior cricket season.

He said the HDCA had been in touch with club representatives about several issues.

These includes the number of overs bowled, starting times for games and competition points acquired for wins or draws.

Further feedback will be sought by the HDCA in the lead-up to the season launch.

It is unlikely that changes will be made to the HDCA senior competition.

Preparations are also underway for the HDCA’s representative teams in 2016/17.

Steve Edwards has been reappointed as head coach of cricket for juniors in the region.

Trials for under-12s, under-14s and under-16s representative teams will be held on September 11 and 18 at Chevalier College.