Twelve teams have entered the tournament in Portland with each team playing three games before semi-finals begin on Wednesday.

Wimmera-Mallee will take on South West No1 while Horsham is up against Warrnambool Gold on the first day of competition. 

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Horsham coach Damien Bunworth said the team was hopeful for a good performance.

“We’ve got a good group of kids, they are fairly young but we should go okay,” Bunworth said. 

“These games are a good way to meet new people and broaden your horizons in cricket.

“Facing better batters and bowlers and enjoying the comradely of different kids that you would normally play against in the association. It should be good for them.”

The side will be led by co-captains Jackson Hoffman and Caleb Hurley. Bunworth said it was a valuable chance for the pair to work on their leadership skills. 

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“They’re a couple of good leaders,” Bunworth said. “It will be good to see them start learning more about the responsibility of it all and to work on their captaincy.”

Horsham Cricket Association secretary Darren Chesterfield said it is also a great opportunity for the youngsters to play in some different conditions. 

“It’s completely different conditions down there,” he said. “The grounds generally aren’t as good as what we’ve got up here.

“The focus isn’t so much on winning, its an introduction to country week and to play cricket against some different kids in different conditions. It’s a good experience.”