The A and B-grade seasons were slated to kick-off in under two weeks. Instead, all senior and junior competitions will begin on the same day.
The decision from Cricket Shepparton to push the A and B-grade seasons back from their October 17 start date was made earlier this week - after multiple clubs were yet to receive permission to begin training from local councils.
Katandra, Northerners and Pine Lodge cricket clubs - and the recreation reserves they use - reside in Greater Shepparton City Council jurisdiction and as of Tuesday, had not yet been approved by council to use the facilities.
That was also the case for Moira Shire Council's Numurkah and Waaia cricket clubs, until they were given the green light this week.
However, despite those five clubs waiting to hear back from their respective councils, the remainder of the association's clubs had returned to training.
Cricket clubs such as Tatura, who train and play on council-owned grounds, have been back training for the past fortnight.
Cricket Shepparton president David D'Elia said it was unfair for some clubs to miss out on preparing for the season, while other clubs had already begun preparation.
“The call was made due to those five clubs not receiving permits to be able to train yet,” he said.
“We had no choice but to push the start date back, it was a bit unfair for those clubs that haven't started training.”
Greater Shepparton City Council issued a brief statement on why Katandra, Pine Lodge and Northerners had not been able to use their facilities.
“Council officers are continuing to work with relevant parties to ensure and enable the safe use of facilities for user groups,” the council said in a statement.
Cricket Shepparton revealed that the 13-round season will consist of all one-day games.
There will also be a three-round Twenty-20 competition for all grades in January.
***
More local sport
Cricket Victoria makes changes to pathway system
Seymour's Elle McDonald helps Vixens win through to grand final
37°C