Clubs to be consulted over proposed restart in September

The first senior shinty games could be played at the end of next month, with clubs being asked next week if they wish to play in localised friendly leagues.

The Camanachd Association revealed yesterday its directors have approved September 26 as the indicative date for the first fixtures since the opening competitive programme on March 7 was followed within days with all play being suspended.

Premiership champions Kingussie, however, will not commit to playing until after a board meeting at the Dell on August 25.

The Scottish Government has indicated that adult contact training can resume on August 24, though this is subject to confirmation by the first minister on August 20.

Association chief executive Derek Keir revealed: “Training and then playing will be subject to the clubs having completed the Club Readiness Guide issued by the association. No games, including friendlies, can be played ahead of September 26.”

Development officer Ronald Ross will issue a questionnaire to clubs on Monday to identify which teams want to play and who they would prefer to play against.

Keir stated that updated guidance from sportscotland means the start of games for age-group teams may be brought forward ahead of September 26.

Ahead of play resuming at under-17, under-14 and primary level, a review of coach-to-participant levels will be held following next week’s reopening of schools.

Beauly returned to youth training on Wednesday evening while several other clubs have returned the necessary paperwork so they can follow suit.

Newtonmore midfielder Jamie Robinson says he is not willing to take part in any friendly matches this year.

Robinson, who will be 35 in October and has won eight Premiership medals, said:

“I’m keen to keep playing for Newtonmore and to help them win the Camanachd Cup for the fifth season in succession.

“But my family comes first so if the proposed localised friendly matches are introduced I won’t be making myself available.

“Taking part would be too much of an unnecessary health risk, as I see it, and I think one or two others are a bit dubious as well.”

Fort William co-manager Victor Smith said: “It’s a boost to have a date lined up to finally play a match.

“We’re keen to play for one, two or three months, as long as is manageable, to avoid this year being a total write-off for us.”

GOING STRONG: Newtonmore’s Jamie Robinson, centre, is looking forward to pre-season training but is saying no to friendlies