Port Douglas cricket has taken a step forward with the installation of new synthetic pitches, just in time for the commencement of the new season.

Port Douglas Mudcrabs senior player and committee member, Josh McConnell, said the new pitches will benefit all levels at the club

"It's going to be fantastic for our training now because we've got actual synthetic which covers the whole concrete area. This will help the entire club from seniors right down to juniors.

"The old pitches were in a massive state of disrepair, but having received funding from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund we can look forward to training on quality (pitches)."

Mr McConnell also hinted that a new turf pitch may be installed after Christmas to enable practice on a variety of surfaces.

"This, we hope, should generate interest from new players as we now have adequate training facilities."

Those interested in playing for the the "Muddies" can go to the Port Douglas Sports Complex on Monday and Wednesday nights from 4.30, or once the season commences on 18 September, Tuesday and Thursday nights.