THE FIRST round of the Nambucca Valley Cricket Association 2019-20 season was underway this afternoon - although the welcome rain cruelled matches in neighbouring districts.
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Early in their 40-over match at Phillip Hughes Oval at Macksville, Macksville Hotel were 2 for 48, against an undermanned premiers, Scotts Head.
Jesse Owen was out for three and Curtis Ellis for 17. Matthew 'Bruno' Brandolini came and went, while Zac Baldwin looked dangerous before his wicket was taken just on drinks by William Devereaux.
Scotts Head had just the eight players and at the break they asked for and were given permission for Ritchie Donovan to come on as a substitute fielder.
This lifted their spirit if not the math, as one player remarked: "With an extra man it will feel like we've got 12 out there".
Across the road, at Donnelly Welsh Field, Macksville Ex-Services Bulls were doing battle with Pub With No Beer.
The Bulls went to the break at 1 for 67 after their 20 overs.
Meanwhile, Josh Bartlett - part of the Valleys Cricket side which takes in Nambucca and Bellingen - was left to kick stones after their scheduled North Coast Premier League match at Coffs Harbour was washed out.
The local club cricket competition in Nambucca though looks to have an exciting season ahead, with just the one grade and seven teams giving players plenty of competitive variety.
Enjoy the gallery.