Band of Brothers

• Band of Brothers Report 29/8/23

  As we draw closer to the end of each Martlets’ season we always end with a classic vs Band of Brothers, igniting the old flame of Sussex Vs Kent. This time we were back in enemy territory of Marden boasting the most wonderful ‘glass’ like surface replicating only what I can imagine Peth’s Gabba is to Mitchell Johnson. Making the most military medium bowler (myself) feel like Jofra bi-annually. This time, Martlets were equipped with probably their fastest bowler (sorry Jordi) – Harry Walker. Clocked at over 80mph at just 16 the three slips and two gullies enforced by Rebbetts were stood so far back only Frogbox or NV play could evidence better. Thankfully no edges were found as I doubt they would have been caught anyway but wickets certainly were found. Making his Martlets’ debut was Hastings seamer Satchi Mahendran who bowled Pollington first over as he shouldered arms, probably no better sight for a fast bowler. Two edges to Ferro followed once again to Satchi as he began with 3 quick wickets to expose the middle order to Walker’s rockets. Our chairman and proud father Paul Walker standing at mid off, knowing the ball would never be hit back his way, could stand and admire as the bal thudded into Ferro’s gloves time and time again. Number 5 Gregory only lasted 2 balls as another thunderbolt cannoned into middle stump reducing BoBs to 34-4. Only captain F Hulbert had any answer to the exceptional bowling as he took the attack to the end of their respective spells. They were replaced by Rebbetts and Matt Ritchie as seam seemed the only option currently with the ball still flying through. The score moved to 75 before Rebbetts took the vital wicket of Hulbert who made a very entertaining 46 off just 42 balls with a lovely ball that nipped back, took the inside edge and cannoned into middle stump. A very relieved man was Ben Whelpton who is normally very reliable in the field and dropped Hulbert at backward point early on in his innings! Ritchie got a deserved wicket bowling Butt for 8 before Rebbetts found the edge of Vant to leave 102-7 before Hastings’ overseas Osborne took the important wicket of Meacher in the final over before lunch to leave BoBs reeling at 104-8. An excellent curry and jug of Harvey’s was enjoyed by all (overage) before Martlets finished the innings exceptionally with Rebbetts and Osborne taking another one each to bowl out The Brothers for just 122. Nothing would be taken for granted as the Martlets have lost the last 2 games against their rivals and despite a good wicket, the Brothers bowling is always very strong and today was no exception.

  Hulbert who boasts an impressive record in the Liverpool Premier League opened the bowling alongside Eastbourne regular Meacher who both picked up early wickets as Whelpton hooked beautifully only to find fine leg for 16, before Forster was cleaned up by Hulbert leaving Martlets 33-2. Our 14 year old Langham looked excellent as normal and is a very exciting prospect and scored 6 before being adjudged LBW for 6 taking to the Martlets 50-3 at tea. A couple more quick wickets for BOB and they knew they’d be in with a chance. However, the reliable Ferro joined by Osborne chased excellently as the pitch offered less and less as the ball softened. They put on 68 unbroken to take Martlets to a 7 wicket victory with Ferro left 45 not out and Osborne 23. They batted very sensibly for 20 overs together and showed great composure against some excellent bowling. A really important victory for Martlets after successive defeats at the hands of The Brothers. I’m sure they will look to take their revenge as we welcome them back to Sussex next year. Thanks again to Marden and BoBs for another wonderful showcase in fabulous facilities, catering and hospitality.

  Highlights:
  D Rebbetts 3/33
  S Mahendran 3/27
  F Ferro 45*

Darryl Rebbetts

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