Cricket ACT has cancelled the first-grade grand final for the first time in almost 70 years, leaving Wests-UC to be crowned champions without having to bowl a ball.
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Cricket ACT decided to cancel all grand finals to fall into line with Cricket Australia's recommendation for all amateur competitions to cease in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
Western-UC were set to meet rivals Weston Creek-Molonglo in the Douglas Cup final at Phillip Oval this weekend after winning their respective semi-finals.
But the game has been called off, making it the sixth time a final has not been held in ACT Grade Cricket history. The last disruption was in the 1951-52 season.
"It was a really difficult decision and one we haven't taken lightly given the premier cricket finals were on this weekend, including the Douglas Cup which stood out to be a great fixture," Cricket ACT boss James Allsopp said.
"Unfortunately the professional advice provided by Cricket Australia's chief medical officer strongly recommended all cricket ceases at this point in time and until further notice.
"We will continued to be guided by medical professionals given the extremely trying circumstances.
"Pleasingly, Australian cricket has a united position on this. It's one of those things where sport does have to take a backward step in the best interests for the health and well-being of the community."
Western Districts will be crowned Douglas Cup champions after finishing two points ahead of Weston Creek on the ladder at the end of the regular season.
They finished on top of the ladder in all five men's grades, becoming the first club to do so in ACT Premier Cricket history.
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"I know they would rather have collected silverware by playing in a grand final but these are unprecedented times," Allsopp said.
"We have to make a decision for the best interests in the health and well-being of not just the cricket community, but the broader community."
Cricket Australia has also cancelled the Sheffield Shield season, with NSW to be declared champions for leading the competition after nine rounds.
"It's really disappointing, but it's the right thing to do in the circumstances," said Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts.
Most grassroots-level competitions across different sports have been postponed until the start of May to reduce risks for players, officials and family members.
Canberra rugby union, basketball, NEAFL and racing have either closed their doors to the public or postponed competitions until further notice.
- For information on COVID-19, please go to the ACT Health website or the federal Health Department's website.
- You can also call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080
- If you have serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call Triple Zero (000)
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Lucie Bertoldo
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
