It will again be a part of the first grade competition with midweek matches under lights attracting plenty of spectators in the first year in 2012-13.

While players and spectators are cheering over its return, there are mixed feelings about the axeing of two-day cricket from the lower grades. The omission of the format was decided upon at a Hastings River District Cricket Association general meeting last week.

Association president Shane Williams said the vote was close and not everyone was happy with the outcome.

“There were mixed emotions about the cutting of two-day cricket,” he said.

Good news came in the form of a promising updated on upgraded Oxley Oval facilities.

Plans are well on track and Williams predicted the association would be able to lodge a development application by the end of the year.

Team nominations for the season were extended due to high interest.

Comboyne will stay in first grade after its return last year. Defending premiers the Port City Leagues Magpies, runner-up Macquarie Hotel, Port Panthers Pirates, Camden Haven and Wauchope cricket clubs have nominated again.

Beechwood has nominated to join the second-grade competition, making up the sixth team.

Third grade will have 11 or 12 teams and fourths will have six or seven. Williams said senior cricket was on the rise in the Hastings.

“We’re fostering more and more clubs to extend themselves and move higher up the grades ladder,” he said. The season starts on October 19.