Despite a narrow 12 run defeat, the 2nd XI performance against Rottingdean seconds was a good one, with the finger of fate intervening only at the death. And the home team was short seven regulars due to holidays and work commitments. Rottingdean went off at a good pace reaching 82-2, as Jack Cox 31 and James Maker 45 threatened an imposing target. But the introduction of Gandhi Tandoori MOM Nick Paine brought a new complexion as he took 5-18 off 8 overs, all of whom were caught. He was supported by Tommy Nunn 3-34 and Rye dismissed Rottingdean for 156 in just 40 overs. So at tea the game hung in the balance.
Rye’s response was steady, scoring runs but losing wickets. 17-year-old Jack Dudley made a classy 27 before being bowled and a comical run out of the experienced Cousins left Rye tottering on 85-7. Skipper Martin Blincow 20 and Ryan Dowdeswell put together the potentially match winning partnership as they took Rye to 139-7, before the finger of fate intervened and Rye were all out for 144, 12 runs short. For Rottingdean it was Steve Johnson 3-21, the final 3 wickets, who proved the match winner.
Next Saturday the seconds travel to Glynde seconds, the Thirds travel to Hailsham thirds and the 4th XI host TWB III. The U16s contend the Sussex Junior Cricket Festival next week. On Monday they host Bexhill, Tuesday they go to Scaynes Hill, on Wednesday they host Fletching and on Thursday they go to Polegate.