The Blues spent much of last year living in bubbles in order to play in the Sheffield Shield and Marsh One-Day Cup.

The Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder were also forced out of NSW for the majority of the Big Bash season due to the Northern Beaches outbreak.

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Despite the difficulties, last summer was overwhelmingly successful.

The Blues won the domestic 50-over competition and were runners-up in the Sheffield Shield. The Sixers claimed a second-straight BBL title, with the Thunder also making the finals.

Nevill had hoped this year would be a return to normality, but said the side has learnt plenty of lessons from the past 18 months.

"Hopefully we're doing this for the last time," Nevill said. "Having experienced a disrupted pre-season and season last year, it makes it easier.

"We're not dealing with it for the first time, we've learnt what works and what doesn't. We've learnt how to remain mentally fresh enough and try to reduce the stress as much as we can."

The Blues are led by Wollongong product Phil Jaques, the former Australian opener returning the side to the top of the domestic tree.

It's a standard the coach is determined to maintain, COVID not an excuse for sub-par performances.

Given the lockdowns, Cricket Australia is yet to confirm when NSW and Victoria will be able to commence their seasons.

West Australia will take on South Australia next week, however the schedule beyond that remains in flux.

Despite the uncertainty, Nevill is confident Jaques has prepared the side to handle every challenge they face this summer.

"The goal is to lift some more silverware. Winning the one-day tournament last year was outstanding, to be able to go one better this year and win the Shield as well would be great.

"Phil has been excellent this pre-season. Last year we were excellent at being able to adapt, we were thrown plenty of curve balls.

"He's making sure we're able to accept when things don't go our way and keep adapting to whatever government directives we're given.

"Whether we're training as a full squad or small groups, he's making sure we're not allowing it to negatively impact our preparations.

"He's also making sure we're maximising the fun when we can to try to keep spirits high through this period."

Nevill's comments came as he travelled virtually to the Illawarra for Cricket NSW's annual Country Blitz.

The former Australian wicketkeeper held Zoom sessions with Albion Park Public School, St Pius X, St Columbkille's and Kiama High School.

While the upcoming Illawarra and South Coast seasons are set to be delayed, Nevill urged the children to remain patient as they pursue their sporting dreams.

"It's a slow burn, it's something that takes a long road to get there," Nevill said. "Whether you miss out on a team or don't get the opportunity to play for a season, that shouldn't deter you.

"If that is your dream to represent your state and country, you can still achieve that even amidst these circumstances."

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