Cricket: Cup final is set for Capital

By BILL LOTHIAN
Published on 29/08/2012 12:49

Sunday’s Scottish cricket cup final between Heriot’s and Watsonians is today on the brink of being switched from Glasgow to the Capital.

Either the Grange ground at Raeburn Place or Carlton’s Grange Loan facility are emerging as favourites to act as hosts with the scheduled venue of Titwood, home of Clydesdale, currently affected by heavy rain which has fallen over the past few days.

Confirming that there is a doubt over a venue allocated the final at the beginning of the season, and in keeping with a policy to move the club showpiece away from a city where the international Saltires are largely based, Clydesdale chairman Colin Mitchell said: “If the game had to be played just now there is no chance it would go ahead.” But he insisted: “If it is dry between now and 
Sunday then there is no doubt we will stage the final. It is a national final and it is right that it is moved around different grounds.”

Another option believed to be under consideration is letting the two finalists toss a coin for home advantage.

Mr Mitchell added: “We will be honest in giving Cricket Scotland daily reports regarding ground conditions. It is absolutely Cricket Scotland’s call as to where the final is played.

“If they feel it is prudent to move the final East with both teams from the East we will 
accept that.”

Last weekend the Evening News revealed possible access problems due to road races 
taking place around Titwood.

Mr Mitchell said: “There is not only a 10k race but also a half marathon taking place in the vicinity of our ground.”