Last Saturday a Bexhill monsoon washed away Rye’s fixture against Bexhill 1st XI. The team arrived at the Polegrove in drizzle, but within a few minutes the ground had been submerged and the umpires had no choice but to call off the match. Unfortunately Rye’s closest rivals at the top of Division 3 East, St Peters were playing Brighton & Hove 2nds in Brighton, which was enjoying its dry season. St Peters racked up 274-4 and dismissed Brighton for 55. St Peters earned 30 points, Rye only received 10 points so Rye slip to second in the table 5 points behind. The home game against St Peters in 3 weeks now assumes even greater significance.
Rye 2nds put up a better performance last week against Pett 1sts, but a lack of experience in the final quarter when bowling cost them the game against table topping Pett. On a wet day Rye won the toss and batted first. Rye made 187-3 off their 40 overs thanks to Mark Cook 62 not out and John Mackenzie 45, supported by Scott Balcombe’s quick fire 32. In reply Pett were 66-2 off 20, matching Rye’s score. However the inexperienced bowling leaked runs to the bats of Conrad Giles 50 and Gary Chatham 66 not out as they went to 188-3 in the 37th over.
The Thirds of Rye had a blank week in the league.
This Saturday the 1st XI host Seaford 1sts while the Seconds travel to play Pevensey 1sts. The Thirds play Icklesham in a friendly on Saturday. The game is being played to raise funds by the Icklesham Trust for the MDNA Charity.
The monsoon season has wiped out all junior cricket. The junior season has now been extended into August. Next Monday the U11A host Mersham B and on Tuesday host Tenterden B. The U13 host Mersham B on Thursday.
On Friday, July 23 Rye hosts its annual Bat & Trap competition at the Salts. Meet at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. Teams of six are invited to join for a fee of £10. A good evening of fun for all the family, with no experience required. The bar will be open and a barbecue available. All funds raised will be used to support the junior section of the club.
Image Credits: Rye Cricket Club .