Barwon Junior Country Week 2026

What is Country Week

Barwon Junior Country Week (BJCW) is an annual cricket carnival held during the school holidays where junior cricketers from across the Geelong Cricket Association come together for a week of competitive cricket. It's a fantastic opportunity for young players to develop their skills, make new friends, and experience representative-style cricket in a fun, inclusive environment.

Dates

Monday, January 4 to Thursday, January 8, 2026

Locations

Games are played at various grounds throughout the Geelong region, including Geelong, Lara, Bannockburn, Torquay, and Colac. The specific venues will be announced by the Country Week sub-committee closer to the event.

Start Times

All matches begin at 9:30am, with players asked to arrive at their ground by 9:00am.

Team Composition

Unlike regular club cricket, Country Week teams are specially formed by mixing players from different clubs across the association. Each team typically includes 2 to 5 players from any one club, creating a representative experience where players get to meet and play alongside cricketers from other areas.

Competition Format

Each age group has four teams per section. Over the first three days, teams play each other in a round-robin format. On Thursday (Day 4), the top two teams from each section compete in a final. This ensures every player gets maximum cricket experience while still providing competitive finals for the leading teams.

Match Formats by Age Group

Under 13 - Section 1 (Representative Division)

• 40 overs per team (minimum)

• Normal cricket rules apply

• Players retire at 30 runs

• Every player must bowl (except wicket-keeper) - minimum 2 overs, maximum 6 overs

Under 13 - Sections 2 and above (Junior Modified Format)

• 30 overs per team (180 balls)

• Modified rules with 18-metre pitch

• Retirement based on balls faced (20-30 balls depending on team size)

• Every player must bowl (including wicket-keepers) - minimum 2 overs, maximum 5 overs

• 8 wickets equals "all out"

Under 15

• 40 overs per team (minimum)

• Normal cricket rules apply

• Players retire at 50 runs

• Every player must bowl (except wicket-keeper) - minimum 2 overs, maximum 6 overs

Under 17

• Three-day "Test Match" format (60 overs per day)

• Standard cricket rules with follow-on available

• Players retire at 100 runs

• Minimum 7 bowlers required - 3 to 10 overs per bowler per day (maximum 12 per innings)

What Parents Need to Know

Important - Food and Drinks

Parents and players are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks for the entire day. Host clubs are not required to provide catering. Lunch breaks are taken at the change of innings (or scheduled breaks for U17), so pack plenty of snacks, lunch, and water for your child.

Heat Policy

If the temperature forecast for Geelong at 7:00am is 35°C or above, all matches will be cancelled. Check the Junior Cricket Facebook page for updates.

Weather Updates

In case of adverse weather (too hot or wet), check the Junior Cricket Facebook page from 7:30am for any announcements about play.

Facilities

Host clubs will have toilets open and available. Both teams are expected to leave facilities clean and tidy at the end of each day.

Spirit of the Game

Country Week emphasises participation and enjoyment. The playing conditions are designed so all players have opportunities to bat, bowl, and field, recognising that everyone deserves a chance to contribute and develop their skills.

Club Responsibilities

Your club will be asked to provide two senior volunteers to help officiate during the week. Clubs may also be assigned to manage specific teams or host games at their grounds. These volunteer contributions help make Country Week possible for all participants.

Register Your Child for Country Week 2026

Want your son to be part of this exciting cricket carnival?

Registration for Barwon Junior Country Week 2026 is now open! Don't miss this opportunity for your child to experience representative cricket, develop their skills, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

To Register, Click Link Below.

2026 GCA Junior Country Week

Follow the Geelong Junior Cricket Facebook page for updates and announcements. 

Registration closes 17th  December, so act soon to secure your child's spot!

Questions

Reach out to your club or contact the tournament organisers at 0418 510 053.

Country Week is open to all junior cricketers in the U13, U15, and U17 age groups. Every player gets the chance to bat, bowl, and field - it's about participation, development, and fun!

Key Dates to remember

• Playing Dates: Monday, 4 January to Wednesday, 7 January 2026

• Finals: Thursday, 8 January 2026 (top two teams in each division, plus 1 v 2 and 3 v 4 in U13 top division)

• Player Registration: 9 December to 17 December

• Player Allocation: 18 December to 19 December

• Fixture and Ground Allocations: 20 December to 21 December

• Fixture Published on PlayHQ: 22 December to 24 December

• Team Bag Collection: 10:00am to 10:30am, Sunday, 4 January (venue TBC)

Cost: $40 per child. Players should wear their club gear throughout the week.

Country Week is a highlight of the junior cricket calendar - a chance for your child to challenge themselves, represent their association, and create lasting memories with fellow cricket enthusiasts. Enjoy the week!