· Thursday, February 7
· Board Room
· Grand Hyatt
· 123 Collins Street
· Melbourne
Mr Dilip Jajodia the owner and manufacturer Dukes is in Australia for the announcement with the VCCL at the same time that the Australian Test fast bowlers start training with Dukes as they prepare for the Ashes battle in England later in the year.
"The Australian batsmen are also now practicing with Dukes and our balls will be used in Sheffield shield matches when the competition resumes in January," Mr Jajodia said.
Dukes offer more movement for the bowlers which is welcomed by spectators but not always by batsmen, who will have a chance to sharpen their game in preparation for the Ashes, he said.
VCCL Secretary Keith Thompson said that Victorian country cricketers were excited about leading the swing to Dukes in Australia.
"The ball offers more for the bowlers and truly tests batsmen." he said.
"The Dukes have proven themselves in trials and also in the Regional Under 21 competition on tough Victorian country wickets during some very dry summer months, "he said.
Recently ex Test players including Shane Warne, Ed Cowan. George Bailey, and Indian captain Virat Kohli have urged Australian cricket officials to use Dukes.
Mr Jajodia will also provide an update on ICC trials with the Dukes white ball
