Rob Sweirgon, the Aberdeen Grammar captain has insisted it is too early to write off the season, despite many in the game conceding there are issues brought on by Covid-19 that cannot be resolved.
“It’s way too early to be talking in such defeatist terms,” said Sweirgon, who led the Rubislaw side to the Grades 1 title in 2018.
“We are only two weeks into the new season, which means there are another 14 weeks left to get everything in place, including getting grass cut, players fit and ready for action and agreements in place about fixtures.
“It need not be a full season, nor need promotion or relegation feature. We just need to be playing again.”
Sweirgon is convinced clubs would rally to help facilitate play – such as volunteering to prepare pitches – and says fitness would not be an issue.
He said: “Our players are already keeping themselves trim and would need a few sessions in the nets to prepare for whatever fixtures are agreed.
“But we are not playing Test cricket. I am sure we could come to agreement on how we handle any social distancing regulations.
“Sport is important to the nation and the area – and it’s not just about being competitive, firstly we want to be enjoying ourselves.
“There’s also the question of mental health to be squared up to at a time when players and their families have been under severe pressure for the last few weeks.
“It is time to go back and play, but of course we will adhere to the any precautions the government makes.”
Northamptonshire-born Sweirgon has been keeping himself fit despite being denied his daily gym fix.
He has resorted to a running schedule, but admitted he’s not a natural.
“I never will be a runner but I am enjoying it,” he said. “And I have been surprised to see so many others out there doing the same, which is a clear indication of the great frustration among people who just want to be participating in their chosen leisure activity.”
Should the Grades season get under way, Aberdeen Grammar FPs will be keen to put aside last year’s surrender of their Grade 1 title to city rivals Bon Accord, while squaring up to the progressive Inverurie, who won the coveted Aberdeenshire Cup last summer.
Sweirgon added: “Whenever we get back to competitive cricket there will be others who pose a threat to us, including Knight Riders, Gordonians and Crescent – all three who are well capable of springing surprises on Bon Accord, Inverurie and ourselves.
“We are ready for these challenges but, in the meantime, let’s just get playing again.
“Since coming up to the Aberdeen area as a student and now as a worker, I have come to appreciate the great traditions of the game and look forward to renewing old rivalries and friendships as soon as possible.”
Cricket Scotland is likely to make an announcement on the state of play for the game in the near future. As things stands play remains suspended until June 1.
