Weather forces Ferguslie Cricket Club to call off friendly clash

The match was cancelled after prolonged rain and cold conditions left their Meikleriggs ground unsuitable for play.

Haroon Tahir, cricket convenor at Ferguslie Cricket Club, said: “It’s a blow to us all, as after an 8-month close season we were all looking forward to getting into action, but unfortunately, we have no choice.

"Our team of staff and volunteers have a lot of work to do on the ground before we play our opening matches, and it just isn’t ready yet because they’ve not been able to get some of that work done.

"We must think about the bigger picture, which is regular matches for all of our teams over a 4 month spell on a ground which needs to be in tip top condition to take that level of use - but we’ll get there!”

The club is now seeking an away fixture for Saturday, April 18, to prepare for their Scottish Cup first-round match at Corstorphine on Sunday, April 26.

Tahir said: "If there’s any club similarly looking for a game they can call either Club President John Docherty on 07914392556, or myself on 07878 265902, and we’ll be happy to travel.

"The postponement comes only a week before we face a tricky first round Scottish Cup fixture at Corstorphine, so we’re very keen to get a match under our belts before the competitive stuff gets under way.

"Our seniors have already re-started practice, with very encouraging turnouts so far, but we would really like to get some overs in by then.”

The club’s junior training programme for eight- to 16-year-olds will restart on Wednesday, April 22, at 6pm.

Ferguslie Cricket Club will also once again take part in the national All Stars training programme for children aged five to eight, running for eight weeks from Tuesday, May 5, from 5pm to 6pm.

Haroon said: "The All Stars programme really is a great way for youngsters to get a fun introduction to the sport.

"The emphasis is on fun and enjoyment, and to give them the chance to decide if it’s something they want to take part in without the pressure of too much competition."

Meanwhile, the club is hosting one of its largest ever social events this weekend.

The Sandy Strang Memorial Pavilion Evening will take place at Paisley Town Hall on Saturday, April 18.

The sold-out event will welcome 240 guests for a three-course meal and guest speakers, with an auction featuring high-value items including a week’s stay in luxury accommodation in Australia.

The fundraiser will support the construction of a pavilion in memory of club legend Sandy Strang, who was lost to illness.