Woodend is hoping to build on what it did last season in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
Woodend finished on top last season before exiting the finals without a grand final appearance. It always won the inaugural one-day title.
Coach Josh Eastley, who is in charge for a second season, said last season was a really good building base for them.
“It was a disappointing end to the season but we still think it was relatively good as we were back in finals,” he said.
“We hadn’t won many games in the years beforehand and we won 11 games and returned back to finals.
“It was our skills and knowledge that let us down in that final, not the talent. We know where we need to improve.
“We want to continue to build on that and we’ve taken opportunities to improve and develop the side.
“I’m so excited to see where we end up, the world is our oyster.”
Eastley said they had added five or six players in the 20-25 age group as they look to build for the future across its first and second XIs.
Woodend kicked off its season on Saturday against Broadford.
Eastley said it had been about four years since he played a round one match as the weather was perfect for cricket.
“It was good to get on the park and blow out the cobwebs,” he said. “There’s a few new faces and it’s exciting to see what they bring to the table.”
Jacques Du Toit, a Southern African with an English passport, is the big signing for Woodend.
Eastley said he brings a wealth of knowledge having played a lot of high level cricket overseas. He said with a lot of younger ones coming in across the top two grades, someone with Du Toit’s experience would be crucial for them.
“I think it’s his first time playing in Australia,” he said. “He’ll strengthen our middle order.”
Oliver Price who played his junior cricket at Woodend has returned to the club also played in the first XI on Saturday.
Broadford won the toss and decided to bat.
Broadford was bowled out for just 134 in the 38th over with Du Toit the pick of the bowlers with three wickets.
“We were a little bit scratchy early,” Eastley said. “Once we got into the game we were able to take control and capitalise on our opportunities.”
Woodend got the job done with ease with the bat, finishing 2-135 in the 25th over.
Captain Marcus Stewart top scored with 49 not out as all the top order got starts.
Woodend faces Wallan in round two.
Eastley said it had been a number of years since he played Wallan and had played against a lot of the players dads back in the day.
In other results on Saturday, Romsey got home against Sunbury United with 111 from Taylor Stevenson the key in the run chase.
Macedon beat Wallan, and a Jarryd Vernon century led Gisborne to victory against Rupertswood.
