CLUBS across the county are working together to help get through the coronavirus crisis.

Recreational cricket is suspended and at this stage it is unclear when – or if – the sport can be played this summer.

The sudden loss of income is the major concern at this stage, but help is available.

There are four separate funds to which clubs can apply for relief.

They range from grants distributed by local authorities and Sport England, to schemes run by the England and Wales Cricket Board in the form of an interest-free loan or, as a last resort, a return to cricket grant.

Oxfordshire Cricket are looking to ensure clubs know all their options to ease the strain during the suspension.

And on top of one-to-one sessions, they have run group video calls with positive examples to spread the word.

Ashley Rump, participation and growth manager at Oxfordshire Cricket, said: “Last week we had two clubs that shared their success stories.

“Shipton-under-Wychwood have been able to draw down funding and Charlbury reported on how they had engaged with members.

“They were really positive.”

Applications to local authorities are being turned around very quickly, which is a big source of relief given the complete loss of income from bar takings and social events.

Rump believes there is the support out there to stay afloat as things stand, although it depends on how long the situation lasts.

He said: “Our role is to support the clubs through that and advise them which fund is right for them.

“Some will need to access two or three to cover their costs.

“We have the feeling there’s the right level of funding available to clubs at this moment.

“No-one knows what will happen but we will continue the support.

“The longer this goes on the ECB grants will become more relevant, if clubs have exhausted the other areas.”

He added: “If and when we are able to get back to cricket this summer we want to make sure there’s cricket on offer to everybody who wants it.

“I think everyone is realistic the traditional league format won’t look the same this year, but when people are able to get back playing they will want to do it.

“The advice to clubs is to make sure when you are building recovery plans not only think about league sides, but the rest of the club as well.”

On top of the financial element, the biggest concern being reported by clubs across the county is retaining their members.

Rump said: “Some clubs worry if there’s no cricket some players will lose interest and find something else to do and come 2021 they will have lost a raft of players.

“So that’s why we are looking at ways to stay engaged.”