The Cricket Club 2nd XI travelled to Hellingly with a very young side which produced very good performances, although, as with most of the season the victory was just out of reach, but it all bodes well for the future, as the youngsters mature.
As usual Rye lost the toss and were invited to bat first yet again, on a wet wicket. The division’s leading run scorer Pete Thomson hit 26, but at 50-4 Rye wobbled. Martin Blincow, 22 and 16 year old Ben Wood, 21 compiled a 45 run partnership with no problem, but their dismissals saw the team all out for 101 in the 42nd over. Sam Walker with 5-51 was the main destroyer.
Rye’s youngsters however fought back as 15 year old James Smeed took 3-32 and Nick Paine 2-32, as Hellingly were reduced to 20-5. But as ever this season Rye were unable to force the victory, although another wicket fell on 50, Hellingly thanks to Sam Walker, 68 not out, squeezed past the target in the 32nd over.
3rd XI : They defeated already promoted Heathfield Park Thirds by 8 wickets. Heathfield were bowled out for 93 as Mike Stoneham took 4-18 and Tony Goodsell 3-23. In reply Rye eased home by 8 wickets with Ed Jury hitting 58 not out.