Saturday's Central Counties final between cup holders Police Recreation Club and Devonshire Recreation Club has been postponed to avoid clashing with the funeral of late Devonshire Cougars footballer Jeremy DeShields that is to be held the same day.

"The game has been put off because of the death of one of our prominent sports members (DeShields) and the club would like for everyone to attend the funeral," confirmed Central Counties Cricket Association secretary Michael Glasford who is also cricket chairman at Devonshire. "We thought it would be most fitting if we pay our respect for Jeremy by attending his funeral on Saturday."

The 29-year old father of two died earlier this week of a suspected heart attack after complaining of chest pains.

"Jeremy was a big footballer but he also supported the cricket team. He was a very quiet individual and we always looked forward to seeing him at our games," Glasford recalled.

DeShield's cousins, Wilbur Burt and Jeremy Fray, are active members of Devonshire's cricket team that triumphantly raised the Open League title earlier this season.

"On behalf of Devonshire's cricket team I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Jeremy's family through this difficult period," Glasford added.

This year's Central Counties final will now be held Saturday, July 11 at Devonshire Recreation Club.

Police dethroned previous cup holders Social Club in the first round and then successfully defend their crown in the next round against Western Stars to set up a final showdown with nearby rivals Devonshire.