Frogs CC | Sussex Martlets

Match Report

It has been a huge personal thrill to mark my first full Martlets appearence at Horsham- a ground that means a lot to me. Full of vivid childhood memories of Sussex cricket week; two first class county championship matches, and a John Player Sunday league thrown in for good measure .

Imagine my surprise, therefore, to find the peace of this beautiful ground disturbed by a robust discussion between the Martlets captain, Jules Hunt, and the Martlets chairman, Paul Walker. Ably and vocally assisted by Dave Mann, senior pro, our chairman had no choice but to graciously submit to the inevitable. It was to be a 40 over match– centuries of tradition overturned at a stroke. Dave Mann’s unsolicited advice cannot be undervalued- with his subtle blend of hardcore Aussie logic and decades of cricketing experience he told us all, “Look, no one wants to stand around all afternoon watching two guys pushing and prodding the last twenty”.

Blissfully unaware of this pre-match saga, loyal Horsham and Martlets members settled back to enjoy a masterful display of quality batsmanship from Adam Trees. “I would have paid to watch this.” I was overheard to say. “An innings of 103, of the highest quality. Adam Trees is a name to watch.” Along with stylish cameos from James “Chadders” Chadburn (35) and Dave “Ever-Ready” Mann (37), the Martlets innings closed at 223-8.

The Frogs response was masterminded by a commanding 94 from opener Richard Lawrence- until he was forced to retire in unusual circumstances. Having top-edged a ball onto his helmet, he left the field stoically- despite being only six short of his century. After the match, I asked Richard if it was difficult for him to walk away so close to his hundred and all he had to say was, “Not at all. I couldn’t wait to get off!’

We don’t come across games like this often, and this has been a testimony to all that the Martlets represent and their enduring contribution to the county.

As the game moved towards its thrilling climax, Paul Walker sportingly encouraged the Frogs run chase to the point where only four runs were required off the final over. Enter our hero and capitano, Jules Hunt, to bowl the final over. Six perfect deliveries, evading the flailing bats, a wicket maiden! Martlets win by 4 runs- a thrilling 40 over match! The end of declaration cricket? Only time will tell…