The shield is named after Tocumwal’s Arthur ‘Artie’ Owen and Deniliquin’s Wayne Bradley.
Both were part of the original Southern Riverina Cricket Council formed in 1982, and remained involved for more than 40 years.
Owen sadly passed in November, but Bradley is still heavily involved in local cricket with the Rhinos where his son and grandchildren all play.
Both Owen and Bradley are loved and admired in the regional sporting community, and Bradley says he is excited the annual challenge is back after COVID-19.
“The carnival helps track the progress and development of the junior players,” Bradley said.
Five Tocumwal youngsters will be playing in the NSW versus Victoria games this weekend.
Tom White, Sam Bennett and Logan White will play in the under-15s, while Archie Chellew and James White will suit up for the under-13s.
No players associated with the Berrigan or Finley cricket clubs is registered as playing.
The carnival challenges players as it becomes state versus state and mate versus mate, so the gloves are off to come away with the coveted shield.
The under-15s play a 50/50 format while the under-13s play a 40/40 format.
The NSW versus Victoria clash will be held this Sunday at Barooga from 11am.