Cup competition hopes dashed by game’s chiefs

Shinty: With no matches to be played, fears players could drift away

Shinty chiefs yesterday dashed hopes that the Tulloch Homes Camanachd Cup and other cup competitions could be played this year – and with league action also cancelled, it triggered fears some players could drift out of the game.

The Camanachd Association directors held out the prospect of a localised competition if time becomes available this autumn.

Kingussie, who were due to host the Camanachd Cup final for the first time since 1999, now find their extensive preparations are in vain and that they must wait to defend the Macaulay Cup and the Mowi Premiership trophy.

Club president Russell Jones said: “We’re very disappointed, but the people in the game needed some clarity and, realistically, the association has had no option.

“I gather that some leading players, not in my own club, are asthma or diabetes sufferers and have indicated they would not play until they were sure of being safe from the virus.”

Orston Gardner, manager of Camanachd Cup and MacTavish Cup holders Newtonmore, said: “We’re absolutely gutted at not getting the chance to win the Camanachd trophy five years in succession.

“But the association was in a no-win situation. It would have grossly devalued the Camanachd Cup to try to squeeze it in as a rapid-fire event.

“There’s now a real risk some players might drift out of the game if they go 11 months without hitting a ball.

“This is certainly an issue – and an even bigger worry is we might lose clubs”

“This is certainly an issue – and an even bigger worry is that we might lose clubs as well.

“Most clubs rely on gate income and selling baking and raffles at matches, so some could struggle financially.”

Skye manager Kenny Macleod said: “It must have been a difficult decision but the key thing now is to hope that all clubs get through this virus situation and are able to compete next year.

“Some players may be lost to the game after a year out – but we’re lucky, we’ve got a young squad who can step up next year. If we’re able to play in some sort of small tournament this autumn then it would be brilliant.”

Michael Delaney, the Lochaber manager, said: “It’s a great shame the trophies won’t be contested this year. But if we get temporary local leagues, that would be a welcome consolation.”

Association directors held discussions with Fort William doctor John Wallace, the shinty-hurling international medic, and took advice from sportscotland before calling off the competitions.

Camanachd Association president Keith Loades said: “This unanimous decision highlights our commitment to the protection and wellbeing of our community. We can only deliver competition when it is safe to do so and in line with what our clubs and match officials are comfortable engaging with.”

He thanked sponsors for their understanding and support.