Warriors fast bowler Glenton Stuurman will lead the Warriors' attack when the 2020/21 domestic season returns next month.
Stuurman is itching to get back in the middle following the long off-season - a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The new campaign will launch on Monday, 2 November, with the 4-Day Franchise Series.
"Everyone has been waiting so long just to be outside and be in a position to see each other physically and practising, so the release of the fixtures is the start of getting back to what we love to do... and that is to play cricket again," Stuurman said.
"It's a pity we still have to wait nearly three weeks, but everyone is just excited to get going. It's always easier to prepare when you have finality and having that now in the form of fixed dates is wonderful. You can now visibly see everyone's excitement. We've had enough of just training and training without an end goal. Now we have one that is 2 November."
Stuurman's stock has been gradually rising over the past 12 months, which even saw him included in a recent national camp.
The 28-year-old is still establishing himself in franchise cricket, where he has played 10 games and grabbed 35 wickets.
The Warriors have lost Proteas duo Sisanda Magala and Lutho Sipamla in the off-season, and Stuurman will be key to coach Robin Peterson's plans.
"It was a massive loss obviously, losing Lutho and Sisanda," he said. "But in saying that, I'm actually excited about what we have at the franchise.
"We have two left-arm quicks (Stefan Tait and Marco Jansen) and there's not too many of those in South Africa. Both are still young as well, so although it's a big loss, we're really excited what these new guys are bringing to the table.
"My role is just to try and lead the attack from the start, trying to be an example for the others," he continued.
"I'm going to have to be consistent, which is the plan. I know I'm going to have to step up and do a lot of bowling, but I believe I am ready for that and excited about it.
"Ultimately I want to be a match-winner for the side. We also mustn't forget that there is still Basheer Walters in the mix. He is going to be the key man for experience and will be vital to the Warriors."
The Warriors also have Proteas fast bowler Anrich Nortje in their side, but his Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments and potential Proteas selection mean he is unlikely to feature much for the Warriors.
"Anrich is a superstar," said Stuurman. "The way he's bowling at the moment, he is going to need a break when he's back. But we have to plan without him and if he does play then that will be a bonus."
The Warriors begin the season with a trip to Bloemfontein to face the Knights.
There are only seven rounds in the competition this year as opposed to 10 in the past, although there is a five-day final scheduled for 25 February-1 March.
"Less games does mean that everyone has to be on top from ball one of the first game," said Stuurman.
"Sometimes you may get a game or two just to find your feet, but this time with the season being shorter you have to hit the ground running from the outset."
- Compiled by Sport24 staff