Cricket:
Scottish Cup
Penicuik have been forced to abandon the chase for Pakistani batsman Sajid Ali.
The ambitious Border League side had hoped to lure the former Poloc player after their original professional, West Indian Adrian Murphy, was refused entry to the country.
This latest blow to Penicuik, however, may be regarded as a boost to Clydesdale, who visit Kirkhill on Scottish Cup duty tomorrow.
The presence of Sajid would surely have sent jitters running through a Titwood side whose start to the league season has been decidedly unconvincing and who no doubt have mixed memories of the Pakistani batsman in his Poloc days.
However, Clydesdale may still find themselves up against a talented Pakistani pro as Penicuik last night were close to securing the services of former Royal High player, Rizwan-uz-Raman.
That, at least, may offer some compensation to Penicuik, who are in no doubt who is to blame over their failure to capture Sajid.
Secretary John Downie explained: ''Red tape at the Immigration Office has cost us dear.
''There have been delays all the way through. It took them a week to send us the application forms, and they then said it would be five weeks before they could produce a work permit.
''That would take us virtually to the end of June, and it simply wouldn't be worth it for Sajid.''
However, Downie added that Rizwan, respected for his coaching ability, could face Clydesdale.
''We could certainly do with a pro against a side of Clydesdale's calibre,'' he said.
Also in Section Three, holders Grange visit Ayr for what could be a high scoring tie.
Ayr skipper Ian Masterton said: ''Both sides bat well down the order, and I'm quite confident our lads won't be overawed by Grange's reputation.''
However, he did admit: ''The one player we fear is Ian Beven. He may be getting on, but in my opinion, he's still the best spin bowler in the business.''
Section Two's top tie sees Poloc travel to Stoneywood-Dyce seeking revenge for last week's Conference defeat.
However, they will find the Aberdeen side in equally determined mood.
Spokesman David Lamb said: ''We will treat the match exactly as we did last week and obviously hope for the same outcome.
''However, our wicket may be a bit firmer and may well suit their professional.''
Ferguslie are another side who have a long journey journey ahead.
The former Western Union side start favourites at Inverurie in Section One, but skipper Stuart Kennedy warned: ''We could have done without such a long journey so early in the season.
''We still have to find our form, and the underdogs will have nothing to lose.''
Glasgow Accies have the chance to create a shock in Section Four when they entertain Heriot's.
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