After going into recess for 12 months, the Miners have rallied and found enough players to field an A grade side in the district competition.

Officials are also keeping the door open for a B-grade side.

Miners official Chris Hartshorn said there had been a strong push to return from the cricketing wilderness.

“We had a meeting last Friday night to see who was keen to play and we came to a decision that we will have at least an A-grade side,” Hartshorn said.

“It’s important we got up and going again.

“I was in constant contact with Michael Erdeljac through last year and he was very positive about us starting up again.

“Our meeting was really positive.”

The Miners withdrew from last season’s competition only 48 hours before the season started with most of their senior players joining neighbouring club Howlong.

They will rely heavily on a host of youngsters, plus the experienced Hartshorn and Carl Walton.

Erdeljac said CAW was delighted to see the club fight back from adversity.

“It’s fantastic that after 12 months they had the ability and skill to bring themselves back,” Erdeljac said.

“Most of us know that if you are out for longer than that it’s very hard to get going again.

“We are right behind them.

“CAW will be working closely with Indigo Shire concerning their facilities and any other ways we can assist.

“As Albury-Wodonga and the surrounding areas are growing, we think the smaller outlying country clubs will be able to tap into the next level of players coming through.”

Hartshorn said several players from rival CAW clubs had expressed interest in joining Barnawartha-Chiltern.

“There has been some interest out there,” he said.

“We will be a young side and it would be good to top up with a few experienced players to help us out.

“That’s something we will be looking further into.”

Barnawartha and Chiltern merged about 20 years ago and have been regular finalists since amalgamating.

Eleven teams played in the district competition last season with newcomer Corowa winning the premiership.

Inquiries can be made with Hartshorn on 0437 811 886.