Band of Brothers CC

On a misty morning skippers Lack (Sussex Martlets) and Bruce (Band of Brothers) produced the team sheets for the Castle printers. Both sides looked strong on paper and when the Band of Brothers captain won the toss it was obvious that chasing a score would be easier than getting a side out on a very good batting track. Unfortunately for the Band of Brothers the sun came out for the rest of the day and made bowling hard work.

After the early loss of one wicket, Speake 120 and  Rebbits 130 put on a superb partnership of 239. After 50 overs, the Martlets declared on 293 for 5 a little short of the 301 for 5 off 50 overs declared scored against the Martlets last month at Hurstpierpoint.

Band of Brothers started steadily in the face of impressive quick bowling from Mathews and Mugglestone.  At tea the Band of Brothers had 60 for no wIcket and looked on course to chase down the score.  Mordt and  Hines slowed the rate down and each took a wicket.  Spinners Lack and King then tried to buy a few wickets but only produced two more.  Finally the quicks returned and the Band of Brothers finished on 225 for 4 off 46 overs.

A creditable winning draw for the Martlets and many thanks to John Barclay for a superb day at the glorious Castle ground.  Visiting sides often underestimate the high standard of wickets on County outgrounds and begin to appreciate why it often takes 4 days to win matches!  Umpires Farrell and Holland were impeccable all day and as usual Midge and Diane produced excellent scoresheets. Many thanks to all  of them.

Paul Lack

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