A busy weekend for Sussex's boys

The Under-15s following their win against Huntingdonshire

Colin Bowman reports from Blackstone Academy Ground, sponsored by Hurstpierpoint College...

The Sussex boys’ teams had an exceptional day on Sunday under clear skies and warm temperatures.  It was a very busy afternoon at the Blackstone Academy Ground, sponsored by Hurstpierpoint College. The U15s were in ECB Cup action against Huntingdonshire while a large group of Sussex U13s players made full use of the lower ground.  

Meanwhile our U14s, under the guidance of coach Phil Hudson, made a very successful trip to Ipswich to take on Suffolk CCC.  Batting first Archie Lenham made 148 in a total of 253 all out.  In reply Sussex were in unforgiving mood as the hosts were bowled for 84.  Whilst this was a very good performance and gets their ECB Cup campaign up and running, Phil and his team will know that there are sterner tests to come.  None more so than having to travel to Southend, Essex on 17th June.     

Back at Blackstone, U15s skipper Freddie Longley won the toss and enthusiastically choose to bat.  A great decision as he, 122, and fellow opener Charlie Weir, 102, put on a match winning 227 for the first wicket.  

Both players can admit to riding their luck at times but both innings were very enjoyable to watch.  Tom Hinley followed a ton last weekend with a scintillating 64 runs. Sussex finished on 342 all out. The visitors can be very proud by the way they competed in the last ten overs. Josh Hull was the pick of the bowlers with 4-66.

In reply Sussex were always on the front foot taking wickets at regular intervals. Victory came after 40 over as the visitors were dismissed for 128.  Our U15s have now won three ECB Cup matches on the trot and look very competitive in their league.  They travel to Norfolk on Sunday 17th June.   

Under-13s coach Ian Cox had around 30 young Sussex players competing in three round robin T20 games on the lower ground.  

The lads made full use of their afternoon and facilities.  As Ian explained: “Today is all about the lads enjoying their cricket but there are selection questions to be addressed. We are looking for bowlers to take wickets and batters to get lots of run”.

All the boys put in a great effort and it’s for sure that Ian will have some difficult selection decisions to make.