Laharum has withdrawn from A Grade, a week after the Horsham Cricket Association season began, saying the move is in the best interests of the club.
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An ageing list, off-season player movement, and the impacts of COVID-19 have left the club undermanned for the new season.
The Mountain Men's top side will step down to play B Grade, as a result.
Laharum Cricket Club secretary Josh Mahoney said the decision was made with the sustainability of the club in mind.
"(We had) declining numbers. It's about trying to bring some juniors up to build those numbers, and for their development its best that they play in B Grade.," he said.
"it's all about the long term. We have three or four guys that are still A Grade cricketers, but that's not enough.
"So, it's about developing our future A Grade cricketers. (We have to) put our egos aside and help the club as a whole."
The move ends an eight-season stint in the highest grade, that saw Laharum reach finals four times - as recently as last season.
The club will now field senior sides in B Grade and C Grade, as well as it's combined under 16's team with Noradjuha-Toolondo.
The Mountain Men will open their B Grade season against Lubeck-Murtoa this weekend.
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Mahoney said there was still excitement around the group to be playing cricket again.
"It's good to be hanging out together, as much as anything," he said.
"It's a nice social outlet, and a good chance to get around each other after not seeing each other for six months, really."
Laharum's move down will not affect the A Grade standings, with the Mountain Men having had the bye in the opening round.
However, it does mean the remaining A Grade sides will no longer have a scheduled bye.
In A Grade match-ups this weekend, Horsham Saints are at home against a West Wimmera side fresh off a win, Jung Tigers travel to take on an unbeaten Rup-Minyip, and Homers play host to Noradjuha-Toolondo.
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Matt Currill
Matt covers the Ballarat Football Netball League and cricket. Get in touch at matt.currill@thecourier.com.au
Matt covers the Ballarat Football Netball League and cricket. Get in touch at matt.currill@thecourier.com.au
