A record 67 sides will compete in under 12, 14 and 16 divisions when all grades get underway this weekend.

Chairman Michael Erdeljac said the numbers proved cricket was booming on the Border.

“Our teams are way up,” Erdeljac said.

“It’s really pleasing to get that response from the clubs.

“You can put it down to a number of things including the work being done by Rhys Miller and Robbie Mackinlay from Cricket Victoria and Cricket NSW.

“A lot of work is being done at grassroots level and the results are showing.”

Eighteen sides will compete in under-14 and 16s while 31 have entered the three under-12 divisions.

Rules have been modified in under-12s this season including shorter pitches and boundaries.

The increase in numbers and recent rain have caused plenty of headaches for CAW with several grounds being out of action.

Wodonga and St Patrick’s have the most teams in junior ranks.

The Border Bash between Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder at Lavington Oval on December 11 is set to provide another boost for the sport.

“Ticket sales are going really well for the games at Lavington,” Erdeljac said.

“When I walk down the street, that’s all I hear kids talking about.

“It’s fantastic to see the community embracing it because you don’t get these opportunities every day.”

Meanwhile, CAW’s T20 Blast will start at North St Oval in East Albury on November 11.

The series will run on Friday evenings for eight weeks from 5.30pm to 7pm.

Boys and girls aged between seven and 10 can play with all equipment supplied.

The series is into its fourth season and one of the largest in Australia.

Each side has eight players with 16 overs per innings and pairs batting for four overs each.

Players are able to register online at www.playcricket.com.au