CRICKET Scotland has described the possible loss of one of the country's oldest clubs as a "devastating blow".

Poloc Cricket Club in Glasgow is facing eviction from Shawholm grounds after 145 years.

The club, which was set up in 1878, is based at Pollok Country Park and hosted the first televised Scottish cricket match in 1955.

It also features a unique six-hole golf course recognised by The Royal and Ancient Gold Club of St Andrews.

The termination of its lease on April 30 was notified by landlord, Pollok and Corrour Ltd, at a meeting held earlier this month.

Kenneth Robertson, the club's president, has written to members "with a heavy heart" informing them that it faces imminent eviction.

A special meeting of the club to formally agree its dissolution will be held on Monday.

Mr Robertson writes: "Poloc has been a part of our lives for many, many years and I, for one, am extremely sorry to be the one to have to convey this news.

"It has been part of my life of 50 years but it looks as if that chapter has been firmly closed."

The club is said to have been told that the lease was being terminated after being invited to a meeting by email, without being told "what the intention of it was".

Mr Robertson said: "Without the use of Shawholm, and a ready alternative, the general committee do not feel that the club can be sustainably run in future."

The club said there were plans to let another organisation develop the site for sporting purposes but it was "unlikely that cricket will be played at Shawholm in the future".

Cricket Scotland said it was dismayed to learn of the plans.

A spokesperson said: "The news that one of Scotland’s most iconic cricket grounds may be lost forever is deeply concerning.

"Facilities such as Shawholm are unique and precious to our game, both as places of development for young players, and as hubs of the local community.

"They should never be taken for granted or discarded in this way; instead, they should be cherished and nurtured to ensure a minority sport such as cricket can survive and thrive.

"Poloc CC has a long and proud history, and has been a focal point for cricket in the Southside of Glasgow for generations.

"The potential dissolving of the club and loss of Shawholm would be a devastating blow to all connected with it, as well as to the Western District Cricket Union a matter of weeks before the start of the 2023 season."

Cricket Scotland said efforts were being made to resolve this situation amicably and added: "We would urge all parties involved to come together as soon as possible to enable an agreement to be reached that would allow Shawholm to be retained as a cricket ground, and ensure Poloc CC survive long into the future."

Cricket clubs across Scotland have condemned the plans.

Clydesdale CC said: "This is desperate news for @poloccricket, the game of cricket in Scotland and the west but mostly for the members past and present of this great club.

"We’ve been proud to call you our neighbours and rivals for over 140 years."

Uddingston CC added: "Dire news, a unique cricket ground in the west and famous club.

"The grounds fits in with its surroundings and works positively with the local community. Wondering whether any support can be gained via the council of government?"