Gordonians cricket club struggles to find a new home after losing their grass pitch.
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Introduction to the Gordonians cricket club’s plight
The Gordonians Cricket Club, a historic institution in the Strathmore and Perthshire Cricket Union (SPCU), has found itself in a challenging position this summer. Following the removal of their grass wicket at Countesswells, the club is unable to compete in the North East Championship, a league they have participated in since 1940.
This situation has left players and officials dismayed, as they look for solutions to continue their cricketing legacy.
The significance of the grass wicket
Grass wickets are essential for traditional cricket, providing the necessary conditions for the game. The Gordonians have relied on the grass pitch at Countesswells for their home games, alongside an astroturf wicket.
However, in November, Robert Gordon’s College (RGC), which manages the facilities, announced that the grass pitch would be repurposed for other sports, leading to Gordonians’ withdrawal from the championship. The club’s president, Indy Pandit, expressed disappointment over the decision, highlighting the financial implications and the club’s long-standing relationship with the facility.
Efforts to negotiate and find alternatives
In light of the situation, Gordonians attempted to negotiate with RGC to maintain the grass wicket for the current season. Despite two meetings, the college remained firm in their decision, citing financial viability concerns. The club questioned the estimated £50,000 annual maintenance cost, suggesting that they could take on the upkeep themselves. Unfortunately, RGC did not consider this option, leaving Gordonians to seek alternative venues for their matches.
Community support and future prospects
Despite the setback, Gordonians are actively exploring other clubs’ grounds for their home fixtures. They received offers from clubs like Huntly, which provided Castle Park for three games. However, logistical challenges have hindered these arrangements. Pandit has called on the community for assistance, urging anyone with knowledge of suitable grounds to come forward. The club remains hopeful that with community support and investment, they can secure a grass wicket and return to competitive play in the SPCU.
SPCU’s role and the broader cricket landscape
The SPCU has been supportive of Gordonians during this challenging time, with secretary Derek Traill emphasizing the union’s efforts to assist in finding alternative arrangements. However, the demand for facilities is high, and many clubs are already utilizing their grounds. The situation reflects a broader issue within the cricket community, where maintaining and accessing quality pitches is becoming increasingly difficult. As the Gordonians navigate this crisis, their commitment to the sport and the community remains steadfast.
Conclusion
As the Gordonians Cricket Club faces an uncertain future without a grass wicket, the resilience of its members and the support of the local cricket community will be crucial. The club’s rich history and dedication to the sport highlight the importance of preserving cricketing facilities for future generations. With ongoing efforts to find a suitable pitch, there is hope that Gordonians will soon return to the field, continuing their legacy in Scottish cricket.
