Cricket Scotland has announced the delay of their domestic competition to the 1st of July 2020, alongside the cancellation of the regional cricket competitions in Scotland for the season.
In a press release from Cricket Scotland, the dates announced for recommencement were dependant on the evolution of the virus and potential announcements from the Scottish government in future. Scotland at this stage is currently in lockdown until at least the 28th of May.
Cricket Scotland anticipates that no domestic friendly or competitive matches will take place before the 1st of August, with the period between the start of July and August giving time for players to train, grounds to be made ready, and other protocols to be put in place.
Today’s announcement came after a virtual meeting between Cricket Scotland, the Scottish officials association and the local associations of Scotland.
CEO of Cricket Scotland Gus Mackay was cautious of the return date set with uncertainty of the pandemic and lockdown restrictions still a lingering issue.
“These plans are subject to review as further information and guidance becomes available. Further announcements will be made as appropriate” Mackay said.
It is understood the local associations are optimistic in seeing some cricket in 2020 with friendly and potentially competitive fixtures taking place in August and potentially September depending on availability of players, grounds and officials.
In the release, Mackay says that whilst the announcement to cancel the season is disappointing, it is relieving for players to finally have some transparency.
“We believe this decision brings the necessary clarity for the game in Scotland while seeking to provide, when we can, some form of cricket in 2020.” Mackay said.
Cricket Scotland stated at the end of the release that it expects to make an announcement on the international matches scheduled for June and July in the next two weeks.
In what was set to be a massive two months of cricket, Scotland was slated to host Nepal and Namibia in Cricket World Cup League Two in July. Matches against Australia are yet to be officially addressed, though fixtures against New Zealand have been postponed. Ticket buyers will receive information next week in regards to refunds.
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