The match at Lighthouse Oval will be the club's first in the top grade since March 2019, after dropping back to seconds last season.

United co-captain Robert Saker believes it's imperative his club fields a first grade side each season.

"Our town can easily support a first grade side, not to mention it's imperative we provide a pathway for our young cricketers," Saker said.

"We have a really strong junior club and it's important we give those talented players the exposure at that level, which will, in turn, improve them as cricketers."

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Reentering a team in the top grade has also seen the club lure players such as Peter King and Aaron Wester back to Lighthouse Oval.

"It's great having people of the calibre of Peter and Aaron back around the club, as they weren't able to play with us last season," Saker said.

"They've given everyone a boost and will definitely help us on the field this season, as they are both proven first grade performers, which will give everyone else plenty of confidence."

As well as those two, Saker has earmarked a couple of others for big seasons in the blue and gold.

"We're lucky to have Alex Baccarini with us this season, as he's back in town completing his university studies due to COVID-19," Saker said.

"He's a very talented batsman and will shoulder a big load at the top order - as will Matt Moodley, who has proven he can score quickly with the willow.

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"Those two, along with all-rounder King, should allow us to be competitive with the bat, because last season, in second grade, this element of our game struggled."

On the flip side, Saker is confident his bowling attack can win them games this season, especially in the one-day format.

"Our strength this season should be with the ball," Saker said.

"Peter King, Matt Shea, Alex Baccarini, Angus Rutherford and myself should all be able to work in tandem and take some wickets.

"Especially in the shorter format, where every over really counts."

Rounding out United's squad this campaign will be Daniel Moodley, Ryan Gilkes, Damien Gilkes, Terry Dorrell, Jamie Lowe, Rocky Lavalle and Chris Corrin - who won't be able available until mid-December.

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"Much like most sides, pre-season has been very disrupted due to COVID-19 but with most of our squad now back on deck, we're excited to start the season," Saker said.

"A couple of the squad will ease themselves into the season, which might see us start the campaign a little slow.

"We're under no illusions as to our goals this season - we know we aren't going to be world-beaters, rather being as competitive as we can be and solidifying our spot in the top grade for years to come."