Two Wimmera teams representing Horsham and Wimmera Mallee Cricket Associations two Warrnambool sides and a squad each from Hamilton District, Portland and South West have padded up for bragging rights.

Horsham Cricket Association secretary Darren Chesterfield said it was an exciting week for the junior cricketers.

"It's a great week for these boys to be playing cricket against opposition they wouldn't normally play against," he said.

"Hopefully they all play some good cricket, have fun and learn by playing against quality opposition."

Games are being played at five Horsham grounds Sunnyside, Coughlin Park, Dudley Cornell Park, Dimboola Road oval and Horsham City Oval.

Mr Chesterfield said Horsham City Oval the venue for the 45-over tournament final on Friday was in spectacular condition.

"It's looking like a picture at the moment," he said.

Mr Chesterfield thanked Horsham Saints, Homers and Colts for their help in running the event and made special mention of umpire manager John Burns. 

"The week takes a bit of organisation," he said. "John does a lot of work getting umpires and grounds organised."

On the opening day on Monday, Hamilton District recorded a big win over Portland in Hamilton, Horsham lost to Warrnambool Gold by 48 runs at Sunnyside and Wimmera-Mallee secured a 36-run win over Warrnambool Blue at Coughlin Park. 

Birchip all-rounder Joe Reid claimed 4-21, before top-scoring with 45 runs to get Wimmera-Mallee over the line.

A left-arm opening bowler and right-handed batsman, Reid, 13, won the Mail-Times Horsham Sports and Leisure Player of the Day award, and received a $35 gift certificate.

"It was a good knock and I was pretty happy with my bowling," Reid said.

"It was a good start to the week and hopefully we can keep it up."

For a full wrap of the first day's action, see page 22