However, association president Michael Steinmetz fears this could be as late as Saturday, December 4, when those players not fully vaccinated are permitted to take part.

While community sport could be given the green light to go ahead from Monday, October 25 when the State hits the 80 per cent double vaccination mark, an e-mail from Cricket NSW received this week has complicated Manning Cricket's planning.

"Cricket NSW will continue discussions with the NSW Government, with the view to community sport being able to start once the State reaches the 80 per cent double dose vaccination milestone," Cricket NSW said.

"We will keep our community updated.

"As part of the NSW Government's re-opening roadmap, the government has indicated that from December 1 it will no longer restrict unvaccinated people from participating in community sport.

"However, it should be noted that this date is indicative and could change.''

Mr Steinmetz said Old Bar might not be able to field an open grade side this season as expected due to players leaving the area, while he understands others won't be sufficiently vaccinated.

This would reduce the competition to five - Great Lakes, Taree United, Wingham, Gloucester and Taree West. Mr Steinmetz understands all other open grade teams will be right.

He said previously the association would do everything possible to ensure as many games are fitted into the season as possible.

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