Weather hits the return of cricket action
WELL, it was bound to happen! No sooner had the Government announced that recreational cricket could commence, then the heavens opened and Macclesfield Cricket Club’s outfield became a lake.
Outside swimming pools may also have had approval to open but this was taking matters a bit too far!
Cricketers though are an optimistic bunch and play will return to Victoria Road this Saturday when the 1st and 2nd XIs from neighbours Bollington will be guests for two T20 fixtures.
It will be a strange experience, players coming changed their kit, no teas and players maintaining social distancing.
The important issue for all our local clubs is that the game is on! There is a real concern that the lack of cricket could result in a loss of participants as players, young and old turn to other pursuits.
All the more disappointing as the cricket looked to build upon the successful 2019 season as
England won the
World Cup.
The next 9 weeks are vital in keeping the game progressing. Practice in small groups has been permitted for a while but nothing beats the challenge of the contest.
The Cheshire County League, commencing 25th July, will run a regional T20 competition for 1st,
2nd and 4th teams, whereas the Cheshire League will organise a 90 over competition for the 3rd XI.
Equally important is the Academy. Macclesfield’s coaches have worked hard during the winter and over recent weeks to continuing developing the youngsters, and are now anticipating a busy few weeks of competition.