While the forecast top temperature for Saturday is a mere 31 degrees (it was 37 degrees in Forbes for last year’s Super 8s), Forbes District Cricket Association (FDCA) has scheduled an earlier start to allow for a more relaxed and enjoyable day.

“Last year we were absolutely swamped, but rapt, with the number of sides playing on the day,” said FDCA president, Andrew Glasson.

“We basically more than doubled the number of people [from 2008] to around 200 playing cricket on the day,” he said.

“This year we are starting the day earlier, which will mean things will be a bit more relaxed, organised and enjoyable,” Glasson said.

“We had discussions last year with Forbes Junior Cricket, and they have agreed to have a bye (under 14s and 17s only) for the weekend. This means we can start a couple of hours earlier this year, catering for the larger number of teams, and more importantly, that more dads can play with or against their kids on the day,” he said.

The cricket president said the committee had hoped for kinder weather this year and, according to yesterday’s forecast for the weekend, this looks likely.

The first round of matches will get underway at 10am, and captains of teams involved will be notified prior to Saturday, Glasson said. The Advocate will also publish a first round draw on Saturday.

Orange Roughies are the defending Super 8s champions, having defeated the Day Walkers in a very close grand final at South Circle 12 months ago.

Glasson said both teams are eager to re-form for Saturday’s carnival, which will be played on several grass and synthetic pitches around Forbes. In the event of heavy rain, the president said matches will be played on synthetic wickets only.

Ten teams had registered up until yesterday afternoon and Glasson expected a late influx today, with nominations due to close at 5pm.