Mind games in store at Grand Final

Scottish cricket’s domestic showpiece is set for a meeting of minds when Western Premier champions Ferguslie face Grange, winners of the Eastern Premier, in today’s Grand Final at Lochlands, Arbroath.

That is the shared view of Ferguslie skipper Jamey Carruthers and Grange player-coach John Blain.

The sides were involved in a thrilling Scottish Cup semi-final a month ago, the Edinburgh side prevailing in the final over, but Carruthers is confident the Paisley side can gain revenge.

He said: “We fancy ourselves to get the result if we play to our best. We’ve had a brilliant season and are looking for one more good performance to cap it all.”

Blain’s coaching outlook was influenced by a brief spell at Ferguslie a decade ago. He said: “I was thinking about my philosophy of coaching the other day and my mind was cast back to my time at Ferguslie.

“They have always placed a strong emphasis on their youth section and provided opportunities for youngsters to progress through to the first eleven. I believe that is why they are enjoying success now. We do the same at Grange and this season we’ve given a handful of youngsters their opportunity.”

Grange are without Tom Mackintosh who is on tour with Durham Academy while Preston Mommsen and Dylan Budge are also unavailable. Ferguslie are without the injured Gregg Cameron with James Cook deputising.