This would be in men's first and reserve grade, under 18s, 16s and 14s and women.

MNC executive officer Bob Wilson is now awaiting confirmation from the Upper Mid North Coast clubs as to whether they want to play in 2020. The zone earlier planned to start the Upper Mid North Coast season on July 18, playing through to the grand finals on Saturday October 24 with a five team semi-final format. However, the five team idea has been scrapped in favour of a shorter four side series.

Mr Wilson said the zone wants to work with the various North Coast cricket associations to avoid a clash with the start of the 2020/21 competitions by playing deep into October.

Semi-finals are now slated to start on Saturday September 26 and Sunday September 27 with the major and minor matches. The final is scheduled for Saturday October 3, the October long weekend, with the grand final on Saturday October 10.

A 10 round competition-proper is planned between the six clubs - Port Macquarie Pirates, Hastings Valley Vikings, Coffs Harbour Snappers, Bowraville Goannas, Kempsey Cannonballs and Southern Cross University Marlins.

However, Mr Wilson stressed the competitions would only proceed if there is approval from the federal and state government along with Rugby Australia.

"If the guidelines put in place by the federal and state Governments and Rugby Australia require no canteen and no bar sales this may prevent competitions from going ahead,'' he warned.

"It may not be cost effective for clubs as there would be no income on match day. There are other costs involved in regards to training, floodlights and game day expenses.''

"Once we receive the final guidelines and restrictions/requirements from the federal and state Governments and Rugby Australia, a decision will be made with consultation from all clubs on whether to proceed with rugby in 2020,'' Mr Wilson concluded.