U16 Champions League Final

Worthing (140 for 5 off 20 overs) lost to Bexhill (141 for 3 off 17.5) by 7 wickets

The U16s finished off their season under the floodlights at the County Ground, Hove enjoying a unique opportunity to play at this historic venue in the final of the Champions League. This would turn out to be one game too far for this team which after such good season is no disgrace just failing to meet the challenge set by Bexhill. Having chosen to bat, Worthing got off to a good enough start as both openers, Harry Dunn (57) and Michael Askew (48) built an excellent opening stand of 115 before the fall of the first wicket in the 15^th over. However, the middle order struggled to put bat to ball in the last few overs and although the total set by Worthing of 140 was respectable it was perhaps 20 or so less than was looking likely at one stage.

Bexhill got off to an excellent start as they wasted little time to reel in Worthing’s total. Spearheaded by Liam Bryant, who hit 7 fours and 3 sixes in his brisk 59, Bexhill had already reached 79 by the time he was out in the 9^th over. A 2^nd wicket for Mason Crane in the same over gave Worthing a glimmer of hope for a way back into the match but the damage had already been done. Nick Ballamy and Jamie Piper bowled with pace with no reward while Nick Oxley managed to eke out another wicket for the leg-spinners club but it was all to no avail. Bexhill’s captain, Cameron Burgon, having survived a stumping chance earlier on, steered his side home comfortably enough with a couple of overs to spare. However, the result didn’t dampen what was otherwise an excellent occasion hosted by Sussex CCC.

Scorecard 

U16 v Horsham Trinity - Chamions League - 8.9.12

Worthing (139 for 4 off 20 overs) beat Horsham Trinity (132 for 8 off 20) by 7 runs

A fine sunny afternoon greeted the two teams for what would be a thrilling encounter at the Manor Ground for a place in the final at Sussex CCC, Hove on Wednesday. Having lost the toss Worthing were invited to bat and got off to a solid start as Harry Dunn (20) and Michael Askew (27) took the score to just shy of 40 before the fall of the first wicket in the 6^th over. Aaron Tugnutt coming in at No.3, continued his form with the bat this summer hitting 36 in just 35 balls, including 6 fours, ably supported by James Allen with a useful cameo of 24 not out. However, with just 17 runs coming off the last 3 overs, the total, while challenging, was not the ‘Everest’ Worthing were perhaps hoping for.

Horsham Trinity also got off to good start equalling Worthing’s 37 in the opening 5-over power-play. Two well-taken low catches by Martyn Swift, off the bowling of James Allen and Jamie Piper, was enough to see the demise of the two openers while Nick Oxley, perhaps the pick of Worthing’s attack, bowled economically making runs hard to come by in the middle of the innings. However, David Rogers was batting well for his side and was the mainstay of Horsham’s pursuit of victory as they closed within 12 runs of the target at the end of the 19^th over.  With the game in the balance, a truly match-turning moment as Rogers appeared to hit a straight six only for James Allen to pluck the ball one-handed above his head running round from the long-off boundary. It was a catch in a million for James and effectively won the match for the home side. Due credit to Horsham Trinity who batted well throughout their innings, who never gave up and took the manner of their defeat graciously having been so close to winning. On such small margins……

Scorecard

Senior Results - 1.9.12

The first team retained their place in the Sussex Premier League for season 2013 despite a frankly abject performance at Priory Park in Chichester. Worthing opted to bat first having won the toss, needing a score of 175 or more to reach safety, but could only manage 162, largely thanks to Michael Gould's breezy 41 from just 30 balls, Brad James' patient 23 as those around him perished, and a good partnership for the tenth wicket between Stuart Carter (36) and Mason Crane (14 not out). Most batsmen got themselves out as with ill-advised shots, although the hosts bowled tight lines with a little bit of movement.

The bowling/fielding display from Worthing was generally below par as Chi raced to 149 without loss whereupon they lost two quick wickets to Mason Crane before cruising to their target. As a result both sides were safe from relegation, Bexhill and Eastbourne going down, the latter due to Mohammad Akram's comment to an umpire earlier in the season.

There was heartache for the two's in a winner takes all game at the MCG. Whoever lost this game went down to Division Two. After a disastrous start Worthing were 8 for 5, but a terrific innings from Gareth Challen, in conjunction with skipper Justin Watts and the tail got the home side up to 150. The visitors reached their target with the loss of 7 wickets.

Senior Matches - 25.8.12

The first and fifth teams got called off early on by the umpires in the former's case due to heavy and persistent rain overnight and a heavy downpour between 8am and 9am which left standing water all over the ground.

The seconds travelled to a damp Hastings where they attempted a T20 game but were beaten by the weather also.

SJCF U16 Bowl Final v Ansty

Worthing 210 for 6 (off 45 overs) beat Ansty 150 All Out (off 39.4 overs)

Worthing U16s scored a rare achievement with back-to-back wins in the Sussex Junior Cricket Festival Bowl Final, following up on their success in 2011. The match, once again, was hosted by Arundel Castle C.C., a truly fitting venue for this historic competition, and played out, for the most part, in glorious sunshine.

Worthing won the toss and chose to bat but this decision looked to be ill-judged when opener Michael Askew was dismissed in the first over. Mason Crane joined Harry Dunn at the crease, both looking to steady the ship and patiently re-build the innings. Slowly but crucially this pair saw off the next 20 overs without the loss of another wicket until a mix-up in the middle saw Dunn run-out for 30. Although the score had only reached 58 by the end of the 21^st over, the platform for the middle order was provided as the teams enjoyed an early lunch while thunder and lightning, and a brief shower temporarily interrupted play. At the resumption, Aaron Tugnutt joined Crane in the middle in what would prove to be a decisive performance. Batting through to the close, Tugnutt scored 68 not out off 57 balls with some lusty blows to all parts of the ground. James Allen (18) and Harvey Von Biel (11) played their part, but the arrival of Nick Ballamy who scored 32 in just 18 balls was pivotal. In just under 7 overs the 5^th wicket put on 60 runs in what was probably the turning point of the match. Ansty did well to keep the run flow in check with Jack Best the pick of the bowlers conceding just 16 runs off 6 overs but in general there was some great work in the field preventing the further loss of runs as Worthing’s batsmen looked to add to the total in the closing stages. Worthing concluded on 210 with 6 wickets down in their allotted 45 overs which was a creditable effort, given their slightly nervy beginning.

Ansty made an assured start reaching 66 without loss at tea after 16 overs. Although Worthing had bowled well and kept the run rate down to a manageable level, Ansty’s openers looked untroubled with no real hint of a chance in the session before tea. Worthing resumed the attack after the interval with a double bowling change immediately introducing their two left-arm spinners. This proved to be a key moment as first Harry Dunn, aided by a smart low catch from Martyn Swift to dismiss Will Wright for 28, and then James Allen, made breakthroughs in successive overs taking a wicket apiece as the first hint of optimism for Worthing. Key to Ansty’s chances was Ed Coombs, but when he was finally undone by leg-spinner Mason Crane on 62 with the total on 121, game was all but won for Worthing. As runs became hard to find, Ansty began to lose wickets and two calamitous run-outs proved to be their undoing. Harry Dunn claimed two further victims to finish with best figures of 3 for 32 but perhaps, fittingly, it was Jamie Piper who took the last wicket having bowled superbly all week; Ansty finishing on 150 all out in the 40^th over.

Ed Coombs rightly collected the man-of-the-match award for his innings and captaincy of the Ansty team, but Worthing were deserved winners of the final which should live long in the memory of this group of boys who have grown up together on and off the field.

Senior Results - 18.8.12

The first team travelled to bottom placed Eastbourne, with the hosts containing 3 former test players in the form of Alan Wells, Mohammad Akram and Ed Giddins as well as Sussex number 3 Luke Wells. After weathering an initial storm where the ball seemed to be swinging around hairpin bends, Brad James (53) and Stuart Carter (75 not out) batted superbly to score maiden half-centuries for the first eleven allowed Worthing to muster 189 from their 58 overs. Eastbourne, stars and all, waited until the 52nd and final over to knock the runs off 7 wickets down, with all scalps going to the spinners Mason Crane (5 for 78 from 21.2 overs) and Benn Challen (2 for 60 from 18 overs) with the visitors sporting a makeshift opening attack of Andy Lutwyche and Ollie Rogers due to injuries. With Eastbourne only managing 4 points against the Development XI the following day, Worthing have given themselves a good chance of survival assuming reasonable results in the remaining two games.

The second team played a strong Eastbourne seconds at the MCG as the visitors notched up 259 for 8 with Shane Felton the main threat taking 4 for 74, Josh Goldsmith 2 for 32 and a wicket each for Martyn Swift and Nick Gunning. The home side were bundled out for just 85 in reply with only Tim Dunn blunting the scorers' pencils making 23. Worthing are 20 points from safety in a very tight division.

The thirds took on a strong Scaynes Hill 1st XI at the Manor and scored 143 batting first. Runs were shared around with Adam Bastable top scoring with 33, with Tom Chambers (22) and Kevin Punter (24) also chipping in. Injured first team bowler Luke Vinter got bounced out in what he described as a "traumatic experience". Scaynes Hill reached their target 8 wickets down with impressive figures for Punter (3 for 53), youngster Jamie Piper (3 for 32) and a wicket a-piece for Nick Oxley and Joe Westlake. The thirds are now safe from relegation!

The fourth team travelled to Scaynes Hill where the hosts smashed 277 for 3 with a wicket each for Dave Leader, Jack Stuart and Robson Piper. In reply Worthing got to 193 with contributions from Stuart (25), Jack Dunn (27), Harvey von Biel (31), Leader (37) and a wag in the tail from James Belton (29 not out). Worthing are relegated but put up a decent fight considering the availability issues experienced this season!

Victory in SJCF Again!

Worthing's U16s completed back-to-back victories in the Sussex Junior Cricket Festival Bowl at Arundel Castle C.C. defeating Ansty in the final by 60 runs. Worthing, batting first, finished strongly in their innings, posting 210 for 6 in their alloted 45 overs. In reply, and having started well, Ansty collapsed after tea, eventually bowled out for 150 in the 40th over.

Camera-Gate at Arundel Castle

If anyone finds a camera case containing Nikon camera and an assortment of lenses then they are probably Adrian Swift's. Adrian has a habit of leaving them lying around and then forgetting where he left them. Police helicopter scrambled and sniffer dogs put on alert before the "missing" bag is located where Adrian left it.

Fun for all the family!

U16s v Chichester U16s SJCF - 17.8.12

Worthing 267 for 5 dec (off 34 overs) beat Chichester 140 All Out (off 34.1 overs)

Worthing made their way into the final with an assured win at the Manor Ground on what was a fine summer’s afternoon. Having lost the toss, Worthing were put into bat and immediately began to pile on the runs at a brisk rate. All of the Worthing top order got good starts and on another day would have perhaps got a hundred but the occasional slack short combined with some good catching gave the visitors a measure of control. The pick of the batsmen were Aaron Tugnutt and James Allen both scoring 61 against a varied Chichester attack who were willing to give everyone a bowl on the last day of the week. Allen’s 24 in the 34^th over including three sixes was the trigger for the declaration.

Chichester started steadily enough as their two openers took the score into the mid 40’s but a double bowling change in the form of Nick Oxley and Jamie Piper, each bagging a pair in quick succession, effectively saw the end of Chichester’s hopes of reaching Worthing’s total. With the field in, James Stemp and Charlie Futcher cashed in on some indifferent slow bowling but the return of the seamers saw the last 4 wickets go down in as many overs, Martyn Swift finishing on 3 for 22. Another great performance from the U16s, particularly with the bat, who now look forward to a final against Ansty on Sunday.

Scorecard 

U16s v Arundel15.8.12 - SJCF

Arundel 110 All Out (off 32.1 overs) lost to Worthing 111 for 4 (off 30 overs)

An early morning downpour made this another good toss to win as Martyn Swift once again came up trumps with the call and duly invited Arundel to bat. Worthing’s seamers, Nick Ballamy and Jamie Piper were the pick of the bowlers each taking 3 wickets during the innings but everyone played their part as Worthing’s bowling and fielding made it difficult for the opposition to score runs quickly on what was a slow outfield. Keelan Shoulders batted well for his 29 and Matt Clynes chanced his arm for a quick-fire 31 before he was undone by a slower delivery from Nick. One or two lapses in the field were the only real blemish on what was otherwise a very good display from the Worthing eleven.

Aaron Tugnutt and Mike Askew opened the reply for Worthing and both looked in good touch as they set about building an innings. However, some excellent catching in the deep saw Arundel halt Worthing’s progress as both openers and subsequently James Allen, all holed out to big shots that were well taken by the fielding side. After a slightly nervy start, Harvey Von Biel and Ollie Carpenter settled in to begin a partnership which would prove decisive. Harvey hit eight 4’s on his way to an unbeaten 40 and Ollie hit 25 including a 6 over long-on before being stumped 3 runs shy of the target. Josh Wood, playing his first game for the U16s, came in to hit the winning runs to give Worthing another strong win in the group.

Scorecard 

U16 v Bognor SJCF - 14.8.12

Bognor 102 All Out (off 42 overs) lost to Worthing 105 for 0 (off 18 overs)

After the disappointment of a scratched game at the start of the week, Worthing’s U16 Festival campaign got off to an emphatic start beating long-time rivals Bognor by 10 wickets. Some overnight rain had made the pitch a little lively so having won the toss Worthing had no hesitation putting Bognor into bat. Worthing’s attack made the most of the conditions bowling tight lines making runs hard to come by. Wickets fell steadily during the course of the innings as Worthing’s bowlers and fielding continued to apply pressure on the vistors. Michael Harris offered stern resistance batting for over half the innings and Adam Robinson weighed in with a sprightly 25 not out towards the end of the innings to help Bognor’s total into 3 figures before the last wicket fell on the last ball of their allotted overs.

The bright sunshine and warming air of the early afternoon had clearly improved the condition of the wicket and by the time Worthing began their innings the pitch was less threatening. Worthing opener Harry Dunn (29 not out) supported a fine innings by his partner, Michael Askew, who went on to score 57 not out, hitting 12 fours along the way in another commanding display.  On another day Bognor may have bagged a couple of wickets but the result was never really in doubt as Worthing eased passed the target at the end of the 18^th over without loss. A great start to Worthing’s week but will still need to be at their best during the week for further successes.

Scorecard

Photographs

Senior Results - 11.8.12

The first team gave themselves a huge boost with a much needed win over fellow relegation candidates Brighton and Hove. Having been put in by the visitors Worthing notched up 167 all out with Alex Harris top scoring upon his recall to the side with 45. Darryll Rebbetts (34), Ian Gooding (28) and Andy Reid (20) also chipped in.

Things didn't look good for Worthing with Brighton and Hove 113 for 4, but then John Glover got very angry for no apparent reason and mopped up the tail with impressive figures of 6 for 28. Mason Crane also chipped in with 2 for 40 and Benn Challen got a wicket. 30 points were gratefully accepted as Brighton won the toss and chose to field.

The second team slipped up at the Neville despite having scored a respectable 214 for 8. Tom Lund scored 59 not and Nick Ballamy continued to impress with 40 as others chipped in with 20s when had one gone on to score a bigger total, Worthing would have been out of site. Brighton and Hove got to their target 8 wickets down with an over and a bit to spare. Ballamy took 3 for 25, Paul Westlake 2 for 28, Nick Gunning and Michael Gould taking a wicket each.

The third eleven recorded a victory against Clayton & Belgrave Adelaide by 8 wickets. A good all-round day for the side saw skipper Kevin Punter take 6 for 36, Nick Oxley 2 for 24 and a wicket each for Sanjeev Kalra and Josh Cottrell as the hosts stumbled to 147 all out. Worthing made light work of their target as Lloyd Crathern hit a steady 49 and Gareth Challen a blistering 60 not out in just 46 balls to reach their target just 2 wickets down.

The fourth eleven almost required floodlights as Serendib took 4 hours to bowl their 48 overs in an over rate that would have embarrassed many test teams. Worthing reached 252 for 4 as Jack Stuart and Dave Leader both hit exactly 50 and Lloyd Osland 77 not out. Serendib clung on for a draw in the half-light reaching 230 for 9.Andy Culver took 4 for 68 and Jamie Piper 2 for 31 alongside some dodgy running from the visitors.

The fifth team travelled to West Blatchington restricting the home side to 197 for 5 from their 40 overs. Greg Harris took 3 for 36 with a wicket each for James Belton and Josh Hyde. In reply Worthing were 59 runs short having achieved 138 for 9. Josh Quintais top scored with and Adam Bastable hit 25.

Senior Matches - 4.8.12

The first eleven traveled to East Grinstead and bowled first on what looked a decent surface having lost the toss. After a wayward start with the ball, Worthing regained some control with the spin attack of Benn Challen (2 for 42) and Mason Crane (4 for 84) to restrict EG to 245 for 8 when it looked initially like a far larger total. John Glver took the other wicket.

What wasn't factored into the equation was Sussex paceman Lewis Hatchett who took 9 for 17 as Worthing stumbled to just 57 all out, with no false shots, just Hatchett swinging it around corners!

The seconds won by 62 runs at the MCG. Having elected to bat first the hosts clocked up 235 for 5 with veteran Tim Dunn batting all 53 overs for 97 not out, aided by Alex Harris (27), Nick Ballamy (25) and Nick Gunning (33 not out). EG never looked like reaching their target as Martyn Swift (4 for 40) and Shane Felton (4 for 50) made early inroads, whilst Paul Westlake (2 for 30) mopped up the tail. The two's are now in 6th position.

The third eleven achieved a winning draw against Brighton & Hove 3rd XI. Batting first Kevin Punter hit 59, Dave McAdam-Freud 49 not out, Josh Cottrell 44, Lloyd Crathern 35 and Tom Chambers 22 in their total of 241 for 4. The visitors ended on 221 for 9 with Cottrell taking 4 for 58, Jack Westlake 2 for 23 and a wicket each for Punter and Dave Leader.

The fourth eleven lost but PC UK failed to enter the result in time so it's tough to do a report!

Senior Matches - 28.7.12

The first eleven got a draw against 9th placed Bexhill at the MCG, just failing to bowl out the opposition in what would have been a precious win. Worthing stay seventh in the table having been put into bat by the visitors. Andy Reid hit 75 and Brad James 31 in an opening stand of 117. Stuart Carter also hit 25 as Bexhill bowled a series of javelins in a bid to restrict scoring rather than bowl Worthing out as the home side notched up 205 for 8.

Bexhill's batting relies heavily on two players and once they were out a draw was the only thing on their minds as they stonewalled just 159 for 8with Benn Challen taking 4 for 42 and Mason Crane 3 for 49 as they proved that there was spin in the pitch. Andy Lutwyche took the other wicket.

The second eleven got a vital win to take them out of the relegation places at Three Bridges.The home side hit 272 for 5 with Martyn Swift taking 2 for 37, Shane Felton, Harry Dunn and Gareth Challen all taking a wicket a-piece. Worthing reached their target having lost 6 wickets, with Alex Harris hitting 112, ably supported by Justin Watts (37) and Tim Lund (42).

The third eleven lost at Barns Green and sit just above the relegation places. The hosts got 22 all out with the spin of Sanjeev Kalra (3 for 50) and Adam Squires (3 for 41) the main threat. Kevin Punter took 2 wickets, Joe Westlake and Greg Harris a wicket each. It was the batting that let the side down as they were bowled out for 186 having had a good opening stand of 99 between Lloyd Crathern (38) and Tom Chambers (40).

The fourth eleven drew against Goring 3rds at the Manor. Goring batted first and notched up 228 for 2 with Dave Leader taking both wickets for 23 runs. Worthing ended on 191 for 9 in what can only be described as a nailbiter as Jamie Piper and Jack Westlake kept out the goring bowlers at the end. Adam Bastable hit 85 in the stand out innings for the home side.

Availability meant that the 5th team scratched.

Match Reports - 21.7.12

Availability was a big issue so all sides were not quite at full strength.

The 1st XI lost at league leaders Horsham by 3 wickets. Posting 183 all out on a wet surface, Bennn Challen hit 62, skipper Darryl Rebbetts 62 and John Kaye 23. The hosts won in the final overs, 7 wickets down with John Glover taking 3 for 37, Luke Vinter 2 for 44 and Benn Challen 2 for 49. Worthing sit in 7th place.

The 2nd XI recorded their second victory of the season against Horsham at the MCG. Tim Dunn hit 36, Tom Lund 35 and Gareth Challen a breezy 25 in a total of 148, which the visitors felt was within their grasp until Paul Westlake got at them, taking 6 for 43, ably backed up by Harry Dunn's 3 for 24 to move the team off the bottom of Division 1.

The 3rd XI took on Dome Mission at the MCG and succumbed by 2 wickets. Josh Cotterell made 49 on his return and was joined in double figures by Lloyd Crathern who made 28 - both were run out in the total of 119. Mission were made to work for their victory as Cotterell took 4 for 28, Greg Harris 3 for 29 and Dave Leader the other scalp.

The 4th XI travelled to Brighton Electricity but only made 69 having been put in by their hosts. Marc Hinton hit 16 and Harry Hartley 22. Electricity reached their target just 3 wickets down with Jamie Piper, Andy Culver and Jack Westlake taking a wicket each.

The 5th XI had to scratch due to the availability issues.

Juniors Training Update

Mondays: Last session on 6th August, 2012.
Tuesdays: Finished.
Fridays: Last session on 27th July, 2012.

The finish dates differ due to SJCF committments and the fact that Sussex got to the T20 Quarter Finals which everyone in the county appears to be attending!

Training and Matches 16.7.12

Half the ground is still underwater essentially, so all games and training will be off tonight I'm afraid

Juniors Training 3.7.12

Due to the volume of rain we've had in the last 24 hours, junior training is cancelled tonight - sorry

U16s v Arundel - 1.7.12

Arundel (93 for 6 off 25 overs) lost to Worthing (94 for 3) by 7 wickets (off 18.2 overs)

A sharp early morning shower (you were up before me then - Ed) made it a good toss to win and an easy decision for Worthing’s captain, Martyn Swift, putting Arundel into bat on a damp wicket. Opening bowler, Nick Ballamy took full advantage of the difficult conditions taking 3 wickets for just 8 runs in his 5 over spell. Arundel’s Ben Roberts, hit back with some powerful hitting scoring 21 including 4 fours and after his departure, Sam Temple contributed with a well-judged innings of 26 not out, providing the mainstay of the innings.  However, Worthing’s bowlers stuck to their task as Jamie Packer, Jamie Piper, Harry Dunn and Sam Brice all bowled tight lines, the latter three taking a wicket apiece. 93 under the circumstances was a reasonable total but unlikely to be enough on a drying wicket.

By the time Worthing’s innings began, the mid-morning sun had made batting conditions more benign as opener’s Michael Askew and Harry Dunn set about chasing down the total. Despite some good bowling by opening pair Keelan Shoulders and Spencer Morris, neither Michael nor Harry offered much in the way of chances as both posted retirement scores on their way to an opening stand of 70. With Worthing in touching distance of the target, three wickets in three overs, including a fine caught and bowled by Temple, made for a flurry of excitement but Worthing were all but there and it was left to Robbie Anderson to hit the winning runs in the 19^th over.

Junior training 2.7.12

Off tonight due to the weather I'm afraid.

Senior Match Reports - 30.6.12

The first eleven secured their second win in a row over Chichester. The visitors inserted the hosts having won the toss only to find Michael Gould (55) is destructive mode, and Darryll Rebbetts (68) in patient mood. With Matt Norris (16) the only other batsman to reach double figures, Worthing only managed to post 183 in 57.2 overs, with Chichester's Australian, New South Wales' Adam Zampa taking 6 wickets with his excellent leg spin. Chi looked to be in the box seat at 127 for 3 until Worthing's own leg spin guru Mason Crane got the first of his 5 wickets for 44 runs off 12 good overs. Luke Vinter took 3 for 29 in 12 economic overs and Benn Challen 2 for 42, including the final wicket with 3 balls of the game remaining.

The seconds travelled to Chichester and were in trouble at 45 for 6, but Andy Reid (55) and Nick Balalamy (57) steadied the ship and Nick Gunning (29) took the team's total up 197 all out. The home side reached their target 6 wickets down. Paul Westlake (2 for 37) and Nick Gunning (2 for 27) were the main threat, with Shane Felton and Alex Harris(!) taking a wicket a-piece.

The thirds had a forgettable day at Broadbridge Heath  as they went down by 9 wickets. Batting first Worthing posted just 105 all out, with Dave Marshallsay top scoring with 19. The hosts eased home just one wicket down, with Luke Barnes takng it.

The fourth team earned a winning draw at home to St Andrews 2nd XI. Lloyd Osland smashed 102, Dave McAdam-Freud 51 and Josh Goldsmith 37 in a total of 235 for 9. St Andrews reached 214 for 9 at stumps with Jamie Piper (3 for 36), Adam Bardouleau (2 for 64), Sanjeev Kalra (2 for 29) and Andy Culver (1 for 32 the best of the bowlers.

The fifths went to Brighton & Hove 4ths and bowled first as the hosts piled on 207 for 8. Glenn Harris (3 for 25), Jack Westlake (2 for 49)a and Tom Sales (2 for 53) being the dangermen with the ball. Harry Reeves took the other wicket. The reply halted at 163 all out with Harry Hartley (29) and Robbie Anderson (27) batting well.

Worthing CC Seniors - 23.6.12

A great day for the club as the first team secured their second win of the season, with the seconds and the fifths breaking their duck for 2012.

The 1s travelled to Hastings with nothing to lose against the league leaders. A rapid opening spell from John Glover backed up by a miserly spell from Luke Vinter kept Hastings under wraps. Glover finished with 3 for 57, the off spin of Benn Challen claimed 3 for 82 from 18 overs and Andy Lutwyche claimed a wicket on his return from injury. Hasting racked up 252 foir 8 which was about par on a good batting surface and quick outfield.

In reply Worthing chased the total successfully, with great innings from Matt Norris who scored at basically a run-a-ball for 84, skipper Darryl Rebbetts 70, Benn Challen 30 and Brad James 21. With 7 overs remaining the visitors required 43, but cometh the hour, cometh the man and vice-captain Lutwyche strode in to smash 35 not out from just 20 balls and see Worthing home by 5 wickets with an over to spare.

The seconds too were not necessarily expecting to get much out of their fixture with second placed Hastings. Worthing batted first with Tom Lund top-scoring with what was ultimately a match-winning 41 in the home side's total of 159, ably supported by Tim Dunn (19), Dave Marshallsay (13), Gary Tester (16), John Kaye (15) and Harry Dunn (17).

Justin Watts' men then bowled Hastings out for just 135 with Tester (3 for 78), Paul Westlake (3 for 31) and Shane Felton (3 for 6) being the destroyers-in-chief.

The fifths played at Barns Greenand knocked up 229 for 2 from their 40 overs, with Adam Bastable hitting an unbeaten century and Glenn Haris 75. Dave Leader chipped in with 30 not out and Lloyd Crathern 15.

In reply the hosts could only manage 140 for 8 to give Bastable's men their first victory of the season, with Tom Sales, James belton and Dan Stuart each taking 2 wickets, Hary Reeves and Jack Westlake taking a wicket a-piece.

Junior training 12.6.12

It's too wet I'm afraid - ground waterlogged

England football 11.6.12

The England v France game is on at the club tonight, 5pm kick off

Junior training 11.6.12

Due to the decidedly damp conditions junior training is off this evening.

If the rain persists tomorrow will also fall foul of the weather

Senior Results - 9.6.12

The First Eleven got off the mark with a comprehensive victory against Brighton & Hove at the delight that is The Nevil. Having won the toss skipper Darryl Rebbetts stuck the hosts in, and immediately we saw what we'd been missing as John Glover steamed in for his first bowl for the club, removing double centurian Chris Liddle in his opening spell of 1 for 14 off 6 pacy overs. Luke Vinter picked up a wicket too, but the main damage was done by Benn Challen (4 for 39) and debutant Mason Crane (4 for 35), including a hat-trick to polish off the innings for just 116.

Worthing chased down their target in the 28th over with Michael Gould smashing 61, Ben Chambers 15 and Bann Challen 24 not out. 30 points and hopefully the first of many victories!

The Seconds had a very younthful look to their side with weddings depriving them off the experienced players. Brighton and Hove batted first and knocked up 227 for 9, with the wickets being shared around, with Martyn Swift taking 2 for 28 and a wicket each for every other bowler!

In reply the home side were on the ropes until Mayur Patel (39), Harry Dunn (26) and Nick Ballamy (19) got stuck in. The side held on 9 down for a total of 161.

There was drama for the Third team as they tied with Clayton and Belgrave Adelaide, with both sides hitting 161. Worthing batted first, losing 8 wickets in the process, with Tom Chambers knocking up another half century with 59, Dave Leader 28 and Dan Stuart 21.

Top of the table Adelaide looked favourites to win the game until Dave Leader (4 for 22), Sanjeev Kalra (3 for 44) and Luke Barnes (3 for 31) did the damage with the ball. Tempers got a little heated at the end on both sides but ultimately cricket was the winner!

The fourth team couldn't get enough cars up to Serendib due to another wedding!

The less said about the Fifths, the better according to skipper Adam Bastable, as they succumbed to West Blatchington 2nd XI. Blatch batted first and made 165 for 7, with Greg Harris taking 4 for 21, Harry Reeves 2 for 41 and a wicket for Glenn Harris. In reply Worthing got just 35 all out, with Glenn Harris hitting 34 and there being one bye.

Juniors Training 4.6.12 and 5.6.12

Just a reminder that there is no junior training this Monday and Tuesday due to the bank holidays.

Also with England kicking off against France at 5pm next Monday, juniors training will go ahead (maybe a touch late!) but the bar will be open to watch the game.

U12s v Midhurst 27.5.12

Worthing U12 beat Midhurst U12 by 63 runs.

Worthing were inserted by Midhurst in the first game of the season. Some tight bowling meant that Worthing scored 111 for 8, with Dan White retiring on 20 not out, but he was ably supported by Josh Wood (14), Tom Armstrong (15) and Harry Page (11).

Worthing's bowling was on the money from the off and dismissed the visitors for just 48 with Wood the pick of the bowlers, taking 5 for 5 in 4 overs, with a wicket each for Dan Turner, William Edgeler, Harry Page, Dan White and Lucas Stubbs.

A solid start for a team who should be competing for the league title at the end of the season.

Results - 2.6.12

The first eleven under new skipper Darryl Rebbetts still seek their first win of the season, despite the new captain scoring his maiden league century. Supported by ex-skipper Michael Gould's 31 and Stuart Carter's 47 not out, alongside Rebbetts 101 not out, the home side posted 247 for 5 in their 58 overs.

In reply East Grinstead got to the target 7 wickets down on what was ultimately a batsman-friendly pitch, with Benn Challen taking 4 for 64, Luke Vinter and Andy Lutwyche a wicket each to add to a run out.

The 2s are also yet to record their first victory having lost by 34 runs. Bowling first Worthing bowled the hosts out for 203, with Shane Felton (4 for 55) and Paul Westlake (4 for 36) inflicting much of the damage, youngsters Martyn Swift and Mayur Patel taking a wicket each.

Worthing fell short of the target with only John Kaye's 65 really looking threatening as they crumbled to 169 all out.

There was a victory though as the third team beat Brighton and Hove 3s at the Neville Ground. Worthing posted 226 for 4 with Lloyd Crathern scoring 74 and Tom Chambers 62 not out. Brighton and Hove were rolled for just 103 as Sanjeev Kalra taking 6 for 28, Dave Leader 2 for 19 and Luke Barnes 2 for 5. Convincing and huge congratulations to Kevin Punter's side.

The 4th team played at home to PC UK and batted first, putting together 198 for 8. Dave McAdam-Freud hit 84, ably supported by Matt Thorne (27) and Robbie Anderson (24 not out). PC UK reached their target 7 down, with Thorne starring by taking 6 for 25, Josh Hyde brabbing the other wicket.

The fifth team had a forgettable game at Crawley Eagles. The hosts batted first and crashed 303 for 5, Greg Harris taking 2 for 46, Josh Quintais 2 for 55 and a wicket for Harry Reeves. Worthing collapsed to just 47 all out with only Glenn Harris and Mark Sandell reaching double figures.

Under 16s - 27.5.12

Chichester (98 All Out) lost to Worthing (99 for 6) by 4 wickets

In the end Worthing won out in a low scoring game which they could have easily have lost but for a remarkable run chase at the death. Things didn’t start well for Worthing when key all-rounder, James Allen, retired injured having turned his ankle in the field during the 3^rd over. Nonetheless opening seamers Martyn Swift (2 for 10) and Nick Ballamy (1 for 17), supported by Sam Greenrod (2 for 21) each completed their 5 allotted overs keeping Chichester pegged back with some pacey accurate bowling and a steady stream of wickets. Chichester’s Charlie Futcher (24) responded well with the bat hitting 3 fours but when he was out in the 20^th over the runs dried up leaving Harvey Von Biel to take the final two wickets with the home side all out in the 25^th over just shy of the hundred mark.

Worthing’s reply started well as their new winter signing, Michael Askew, having already made a name for himself with 2 stumpings and 2 catches from behind the stumps in the first innings, helped himself to a score of 31 (retired out), including one fine straight six. However, the middle order slumped; two quick wickets and only 21 runs in the middle 10 overs left Worthing still needing 40 runs off the last 5; an unlikely task against a good Chichester attack. However, the 6^th wicket partnership of James Neal and Harvey Von Biel started to get things moving and when James was unluckily run out, Harvey took control hitting a match winning innings of 29, 15 coming off the 24^th over including a well struck 6 over long on. By the time he was out the game had all but been won and it was left to the captain, Martyn Swift, to hit the winning runs in the final over.

Results - 26.5.12

The torrid start to season 2012 continued for a second week as all senior teams lost their games.

The First eleven travelled to fellow promotees Bexhill on a sunny but very breezy afternoon. Having won the toss Worthing elected to bat, posting 225 for 9 from their 58 overs, a score slightly below par on a lightning outfield. Darryl Rebbetts top scored with 55, as Benn Challen (41), Stuart Carter (48) and Andy Lutwyche with yet another rear-guard action  hitting a run-a-ball 26*, offered support.

Bexhill chased the total in 46 overs thanks to their batsmen going on to get bigger scores, but Luke Vinter took 3 for 56, Challen and Gunning - the spin twins - taking a wicket each. The second loss by 5 wickets in a row!


The Seconds played host to Three Bridges and racked up 237 for 4, with Tim Dunn and Alex Harris both hitting half centuries. Bridges reached their total just two wickets down, although the young Martyn Swift bowled very well on a batsman friendly wicket.

The Thirds hosted Barns Green 1st XI and batted first, but despite plenty getting starts, no-one managed to score more than Josh Goldsmith's 26 in a total of 171 for 9. Barns Green reach their target six wickets down in the 38th over with skipper Kevin Punter taking 3 for 43, Mayur Patel 2 for 47 and Joe Westlake 1 for 22.

The 4th XI went to Goring and bowled first at Fernhurst. Goring made 226 for 7 with Jamie Piper taking 2 for 28 and Luc Hinton 2 for 11. Sam Wookey, Adam Squires and Dave McAdam-Freud all took a wicket each. In reply the visitors were bowled out for just 127 with only McAdam-Freud (25) and Squires (29*) making any real headway.

The Fifth eleven played host Broadbridge Heath 2nd XI and the visitors made 213 for 5 from their 40 overs. There was a wicket each for James Belton, Harry Reeves, Glenn Harris and senior debutant Jakob Heryet. Unfortunately Worthing only made 165 all out, with Glenn Harris hitting 77 and his brother Greg 39.

The only way is up, as Yazz said in 1988!

Seniors: 19.5.2012

The weather was finally kind enough to allow the teams to actually play for the first time this season, and perhaps as a result of rustiness the outcomes were not as favourable as they could have been.

The 1st XI hosted Horsham and were stuck into bat by the visitors. A solid opening stand between Ben Chambers (12) and debut-maker John Glover (20) was followed by a mini collapse as Worthing went from 40 for 0 to 44 for 4. Darryll Rebbetts (39) and second debut man Ian Gooding (27) steadied the ship before Stuart Carter (17) and a swashbuckling innings from Andy Lutwyche (25 not out) got the home side up to a competitive 178 all out in their 58 overs.

Horsham made the target having lost 5 wickets in the 48th over of their innings. Third debut boy Gary Tester chipped in with 3 for 33 whilst Ollie Rogers and Benn Challen took a wicket each.

The 2nd XI were at Horsham and batted first making 200 for 9 from their 53 overs. Tim Dunn (52) adn Brad James (55 not out) both scored half-centuries, ably supported by Dave Marshallsay (35) and John Kaye (21).

Horsham made their target in the 45th over and 7 wickets down, despite Harry Dunn taking 5 for 80 from 17.2.overs, with a wicket each for Paul Westlake and Nick Gunning.

The 3rd XI went to Dome Mission and a decidedly wet track, where the home side inserted Kevin Punter's young side. They made 116 all out from 37.4. overs with ther stand out inning being that of Bradley Lewis who made 32.

Dome Mission 1st XI made the target just 4 wickets downs, with scalps for Martyn Swift (1 for 7 off 7 overs), skipper Punter (2 for 21) and Harvey von Biel (1 for 10).

Worthing 4th XI played Brighton Electricity at the Manor, and ended up holding on for the draw. The visitors elected to bat first and rattled up 289 for 5 in 46 overs, including a few lost balls. Lloyd Osland's side stuck to their task well with Robson Piper taking 2 for 40, Sam Wookey 2 for 50 and Osland a wicket himself.

In reply Worthing reached 152 for 5, with Jack Dunn's vigil of a 151 ball 34 (he must have been watching Chanderpaul), skipper Osland's 63 and Andy Culver's 19.

The 5th XI travelled to Aldwick 2s where they won the toss and stuck the hosts in. After 40 overs the visitors had made 247 for 9 and declared. Greg Harris picked up 4 for 26, Josh Quintais 2 for 36 and a wicket a-piece for Harry Reeves, James Belton and Glenn Harris.

Worthing crashed to 85 all out with only Adam Bastable (17), Greg Harris (21) and Harry Reeves (14 not out) making double figures.

The 6th XI were let down by a lot of late drop-out for various, frankly lame, reasons on the whole.