Warm showers are a friend to footballers after a cold match in winter, but the enemy of cricketers hoping to swing the willow in spring.
Cricket Shepparton has postponed the first round of Higher-grade T20 matches by one week after poor, hot yet rain-soaked, weather was rampant throughout the region to start the week.
Five Higher-grade T20 matches were scheduled to take place on Thursday, but will be moved to the same time and location on December 5.
Although Thursday’s conditions are expected to be dry and sun-filled, heavy rain throughout Monday-Wednesday meant there has been little opportunity for pitch preparation.
Cricket Shepparton president Narelle Claney confirmed the league’s decision to postpone the T20 matches on Tuesday.
The Higher-grade competition is made up of the best players from clubs in A and B-grade.
One game of the Higher-grade competition was played last week, with Pine Lodge snatching a tight victory over Euroa.
Next Thursday’s Higher-grade fixtures will have Old Students host Shepparton Youth Club United and Karramomus travels to Kyabram.
B-grade side Northerners will host Katandra at Tallyagroopna Recreation Reserve.
The two must-watch T20 fixtures will be Central Park-St Brendan’s taking on up-and-coming side Tatura, while plenty of fireworks can be expected when Numurkah hosts Waaia.
The Lower-grade T20 competition is also set to start next Thursday, with four matches taking place across the region.
The second half of the Haisman Shield's two-day round seven fixtures is expected to go ahead this Saturday, although there is currently a threat of rain that could put a halt to proceedings.