However, he said this will require an upgrade of amenties for players and spectators at all major grounds within the association.

The SCG Cup is contested by representative teams from throughout the NSW Country. This culminates in the last eight playing the finals between Christmas and New Year.

Mr Weston believes the Manning would be a perfect venue for the finals.

“We’re reasonably central. At the moment they play the games at places like Dubbo, Bathurst and Tamworth where it’s stinking hot at that time of year. We will have two turf pitches at seaside areas by next season as well as others in Taree and Wingham,’’ he said.

However, Mr Weston added turf wickets are just the start.

“We need better facilities for players and spectators at our major grounds,’’ he said.

“So that’s going to be our aim for the next couple of years.’’

The association hopes to meet with council soon to discuss the possible upgrade of the Johnny Martin Oval.

This would include improvements to the wicket area, outfield and grandstand.

“We’ve just about run the Martin Oval into the ground with all the games we play there,’’ Mr Weston admitted.

“I know that Taree West wants to completely overhaul the wicket square. This would cost around $8000 to $10,000 and the association will help with the costs.’’

Mr Weston said the change rooms in the grandstand need more lighting and better ventilation.

“We’d also like to be able to provide greater protection for the grandstand from vandals,’’ he said.

“People have said to me that it would be good to have a picket fence around the cricket field. But what would be the point? It would just get carted away for firewood at the moment.’’

Mr Weston has said publicly in recent weeks that the skate board park near Johnny Martin Oval should be moved because of the anti-social element it attracts and the subsequent problems. This could also lead to the association reviewing its commitments to the oval.