On and off-field, the Bulldogs are looking strong.

Bulldogs’ president Aaron Bentley said there had been minimal changes to the first XI line-up which contested last season’s semi-finals.

“We still have the experience of captain Grant Connelly and coach Scott Johnson, and some really talented youngsters keen to improve and score more runs and take more wickets this season,” Bentley said.

Square has also regained key bowler Darren Clutton, while the talented Andrew Mead is also back at the club.

The hierachy includes Connelly lining up for a fourth consecutive season as first XI captain, and Johnson, a multiple BDCA Cricketer of the Year winner and premiership player, is in his second season as club coach.

Paul Scullie is captain of the second XI, while Craig Blencowe has taken on the important role as development coach.

A huge plus is long-time backer The National Hotel-Motel staying on as major sponsor.

“The support from The National and ground sponsor, MyJet, is incredible.

The National features on the one-day playing shirts, is major backer of the golf day, and plays an important role for social functions.

“Without sponsors, we, like many other cricket clubs, would battle to survive,” Bentley said.