Only the Namoi conference with start this weekend with Gunnedah travelling out to Narrabri and Tamworth hosting the new boys of the competition - the Central North Colts at No.1 Oval.

Gunnedah are the defending champions but aren't shaping up as the same force as they were last season skipper Blake Small admitted.

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"We've had a few players that have pulled out," he said.

"They're having a year off, not even playing the Saturday comp."

Last season's final hero Garry Briggs, and stalwart Farran Lamb are two names he mentioned, and "two big outs".

In their absence, White is set to step up and take the new ball.

Small is hoping he can replicate his form for Albion last Saturday with the young quick claiming 4-13.

He has got 11 for Sunday but said it has been a bit of a scramble with the double vaccination requirements and work commitments knocking them about.

"The hardest part is COVID, we've lost a fair few players through that," he said.

Where they are probably a bit skinny, he will be looking to newly-instated Old Boys captain Mitch Swain to lead the way with the bat.

In previous seasons they have blooded some young players, and Small said they are hoping to be able to bring a few young guys through.

"Pete McCormack is probably one that will get a chance this year and probably AJ King.

"They're the young one's we're looking to bring through if they get the chance," he said.

Narrabri will be a tough start.

"They've only got the one side this year (they had two last season) so they'll be very strong," Small said.

That is if the game goes ahead. Small reckoned it was about 50-50.

The local Gunnedah games were called off on Friday morning with council, with all the rain around, unable to get on to prepare the wickets.