Decision on domestic cricket season expected after May meeting

Current activity is suspended until June 1 and this is likely to be extended.

But Cricket Scotland will be guided by Government policies surrounding COVID-19.

Chief executive Gus Mackay said: “The board has decided to defer further guidance on cricket activity until early May, when Government is due to announce the next steps and possible relaxations on lockdown measures.

“These are unprecedented times and we have a responsibility to follow guidelines and policies set by Governments.

“The health and wellbeing of our players, officials, clubs and others involved in our game are, of course, a priority.

“Cricket is a team sport and thus brings particular social distancing issues.”

In recent weeks, Cricket Scotland has engaged with clubs and leagues through a club survey to establish the financial impact of no cricket activity this season at recreational level.”

Ninety per cent of the 130 clubs responded, which provided some useful data showing clubs would lose, overall, in the region of £500,000 if no cricket was played.

“As a result of this, we are in discussion with the appropriate bodies to ask for assistance to aid our clubs through this difficult time,” said Mr Mackay.

Last week a meeting was held with the representatives of all leagues from across Scotland, who are prepared for a shorter league season and will adapt their fixtures accordingly in the timeframe available, should cricket activity commence later in the season.

However, the main concerns were around providing a safe environment for players and officials, when it is likely that social distancing measures are likely to remain in place for some time to help contain the virus.

Concern was also raised around the preparation of cricket facilities which are maintained by local councils, who will have other priorities at this time.

Further information appears on the special coronavirus web page on the Cricket Scotland website, which provides information and guidance to clubs and others on health and wellbeing, potential funding relief and support, as well as other issues relating to the pandemic.