Match Reports 2006

Cuckfield 257 for 7
Eastbourne 259 for 6 (Tom Smith 72)
EB won by 4 wkts

A brilliant batting performance ensured Eastbourne of their third win of the 2008 season as they won at Cuckfield by 4 wickets on Saturday.

The hosts won the toss and decided to bat on a good hard pitch with a quick outfield that offered value for shots. Cuckfield lost Nick Walters first, falling to Stuart Faith for a just 4. Dangerman Chris Mole was dropped on nought by Richard Smith early on but thankfully it wasn't too costly as the returning Ragheb Aga bowled him for 27, offering no shot. Jason Oates top scored for the home sdie with a hard hit 50, containing 3 sixes. There were also cameos from Tom Mole (32), Graham Beghin (25), James Thorpe (38) and Mark Gardner (43 not out) as Cuckfield cruised past the mamimum batting points total of 225 to finish up their innings on 257 for 7. It was an ordinary afternoon in the field for Eastbourne with no one really shining with ball. Ollie Rayner and Aga both took two wickets each and there was one each for Tom Smith and Jack Hepburn.

Eastbourne got off to the best possible start, there were no early wickets and they were always ahead of the near 5 an over required run rate. Mark Tomsett and Tom Smith both looked in fine touch with the willow. The pair put on 133 for the first wicket, with Smith falling to a mis-timed slog sweep for 72 from 73 balls. Tomsett fell shortly afterwards for 61 and worse was to come as Rayner went second ball for a duck as Eastbourne stuttered. However, a back to form Ben Brown smashed the ball to all parts of the ground as he it 63 from just 40 deliveries including 5 sixes. It was just the knock Eastbourne needed as Ragheb Aga (42 not out) saw them home after a late couple of wickets. It was a comfortable win in the end as Eastbourne reached their target with 9 overs of their innings left. Oates was the pick of the Cuckfield bowlers, grabbing 5 for 76 from 12 overs.

Eastbourne still sit in third spot in the table with the long trip Chichester to come next weekend.

Battle of Hastings is drawn (07/06/08)

Hastings 224 for 7 (Rayner 5 for 78)
Eastbourne 191 for 7 (Faith 51)
Match Drawn

The top of the table clash between Eastbourne and Hastings failed to live up to expectations as the two sides cancelled each other out for a draw. Eastbourne won the toss and asked their visitors to bat first. The hosts were missing James Kirtley (family reasons) and Ragheb Aga (Sussex committments) but welcomed Richard Smith from injury and Jack Hepburn. New ball bowler Stuart Faith struck early on to a smart catch by 'keeper Ben Brown dismising James Pooley for just 1. Then a decent partnership between James Beeney and Adam Raj-Newman developed, only for the former to depart for 38 with the score at 68 for 2. The middle order never really fired for Hastings as Ollie Rayner was introduced to the game with his off-spin. The Sussex professional dismissed Raj-Newman for a well made 51 and also got rid of the in-form Jason Finch for 16. The visitors were making slow progress but South African Chris Morris got the visitors' run rate with a classy 65 not out off just 57 balls, hitting Rayner's last over for 22. Hastings innings closed on a respectable 224 for 7 with Rayner claiming his third five wicket haul in as many weeks, taking 5 for 87 from 21 overs.

Eastbourne made a slow start in pursuit of their target, Mark Tomsett shouldered arms and was given out LBW for just 7 and skipper Tom Smith grafted for his 18. However, Brown and Rayner upped the run rate and Eastbourne looked totally ease with the impressive Hastings attack. But Brown was controversially given run out for 37 which halted Eastbourne's charge. The re-called Mike Pannett was then bowled by Morris' slower ball for 5 and a short while later Rayner was caught behind for 30 as the draw looked more and more likely. However a super cameo 51 from 46 balls from Stuart Faith brought some respectabilty about the score as Eastbourne strived for more bonus points with the win looking distant. Eventually the game did fizzle out for a draw with the home side on 191 for 7 at the end, Morris the pick of the Hastings bowlers with 3 for 57. The draw means Eastbourne slip to third in the Sussex Premier League table as Hastings still occupy the top spot.

Brighton 85 all out (Ollie Rayner 6 for 27)
Eastbourne 86 for 2 (Ollie Rayner 49no)
EB won by 8 wkts

Ollie Rayner once again stole the show for Eastbourne as they returned to winning ways in the Sussex Premier League with a 8 wicket win over last year's champions Brighton.

Eastbourne won the toss and chose to field with a near full strength team. Skipper Tom Smith and James Kirtley returning to the home team's line up from the defeat at East Grinstead. With the wicket being a little sticky from all the rain earlier in the week, Eastbourne took full advantage. Kirtley struck early dismissing Randhawa caught and bowled for 1 as the visitors never got going with the bat. Rayner was introduced into the game fairly early and his off-spin along with a couple of questionable shots proved too much for Brighton. The Sussex man tore through the middle and lower order claiming marvellous figures of 6 for 27 from 13.4 overs. There was also a wicket each for Stuart Collier, Stuart Faith and Smith as Brighton tumbled to a lowly 85 all out in 40.4 overs. Matt Machan top scoring with just 22.

Brighton struck back early in the Eastbourne reply, Mark Tomsett was adjuged LBW first ball of the innings and Tom Smith also went for a duck being caught behind off the bowling of Matt Wood. With the score at 7 for 2, the winning target of 86 looked a long way off indeed. But that man Rayner and Ben Brown stepped up to the plate and batted beautifully. Brown who has been struggling for form in 2008 grafted for his 19 not out as he played second fiddle to Rayner who pummelled the visitors attack. He hit 49 not out of just 46 deliveries seeing Eastbourne home to their first win in the league since the opening day of the season.

Amazingly, especially after such an indifferent start to the campaign, Eastbourne jumped to second in the table behind Hastings, who they play at the Saffrons next week.

Downed at Grinstead (24/05/08)

East Grinstead 233 for 8 (Ollie Rayner 5 for 78)
Eastbourne 199 all out (Ollie Rayner 125)
East Grinstead won by 34 runs

A superb all-round performance by Ollie Rayner was over shadowed by another defeat for Eastbourne as they went down by 34 runs at East Grinstead.

Eastbourne were boosted by the inclusion of county duo Rayner and Ragheb Aga, and after winning the toss they decided to bowl first on a good track. Grinstead batters Matt Kleinveldt and Alex Edwards were the mainstays of the hosts innings. Both players looked in great form as they made life hard for the Eastbourne bowlers. Rayner was particulary impressive, bowling a long spell with his off spin. He eventually dismissed Kleinveldt for a quality 82 from 111 deliveries. Edwards fell victim to Stuart Collier for 78 as Eastbourne clawed their way back into the game after the home ide were at one stage 190 for 2. But a spirited last 10 overs in the field meant Eastbourne restricted Grinstead to 233 for 8 when realistically a score of around 280 was in sight for them. Rayner picked up 5 wickets for 78 from 23 overs, Collier grabbed 2 for 33 and Aga also picked up a wicket as with a strong batting line up on paper, Eastbourne looked in a good position to pursue the runs.

Unfortunately in reply Eastbourne lost openers Ben Brown (6) and the in-form Mark Tomsett (9) cheaply. Aga was then Will Adkin's third victim as he was out for a duck. A unfortunate run out between Mike Pannett (13) and Rayner meant Eastbourne were 51 for 4. The middle and lower order simply fell away as Rayner was running out of partners rapidly and the game was slipping well out of Eastbourne's hands. He passed three figures for only the second time in Eastbourne colours as he went on a mission to win the match single handed. The Sussex man was eventually last man out for a magnificent 125 from 123 balls including 3 big sixes and 17 fours as Adkin picked up 5 for 55 and ensured an East Grinstead victory. Worringly for Eastbourne apart from rayner's great knock, the next highest score for them was just 13 from Pannett and James Howie., an area they really need to work on.

The defeat was Eastbourne's third in succession in the Sussex Premier League and leaves them lying seventh spot in the table but are only 18 points behind leaders Horsham as every side has made a indifferent start to the campaign.

Tunbridge Wells 254 for 9 (Chris Borsoi 3 for 29)
Eastbourne 198 for 7 (Louis Munro 52no)
Tunbridge Wells won by 56 runs

ECC bowed out of the National Cup at the first round for the third year in a row as they lost to Tunbridge Wells by 56 runs.
A brave effort from a severely weakened Eastbourne side was encouraging especially a team with some many youngsters in. Notable performances were, 15 year old Chris Borsoi who grabbed 3 for 29 on debut along with Louis Munro who hit 52 not out and Ollie Ody who made a rapid 35 to give Eastbourne's score some respectability.

Eastbourne 180 for 9 (Tom Smith 70)
Stirlands 184 for 5 (Stuart Collier 3 for 72)
Stirlands won by 5 wkts

Eastbourne Cricket Club's start to the 2008 season took another stumble at The Saffrons on Saturday as they lost by five wickets to newly promoted Stirlands. The home side once again were fielding a patched up side due to the unavailability of key players. On the missing list was Mark Tomsett and Kyle Hodnett (both on MCC duties), Ollie Rayner and Rageb Aga (Sussex commitments), Richard Smith (knee injury) and Stuart Faith (personal reasons). However, Eastbourne welcomed back skipper Tom Smith and were boosted by the inclusion of pace-man James Kirtley.

The hosts won the toss and decided to bat first despite the bowler friendly conditions. Openers Tom Smith and Ben Brown set about the task with ease putting on 63 for the first wicket inside 14 overs before Brown pulled to mid-on for 26. Smith was joined by veteran Mike Pannett, making his first 1st XI appearance in four years. Pannett looked in good touch but was out to a dubious LBW for 19 as medium pacer, Danny Oliver took the first of his five wickets. Captain Smith kept the ship afloat passing fifty as the middle order simply fell away. At one point Eastbourne were 113 for 1 then tumbled to 156 for 9 as the run rate dried up too. Smith was eventually dismissed for a classy 70 off 99 balls. Kirtley then made some lusty blows towards the end, making 32 not out off 28 deliveries as Eastbourne closed their rain reduced innings of 53 overs on 180 for 9 bringing some respectability about the total. Oliver was by far the pick of the visitors attack, claiming 5 for 36 off 17 overs.

Stirlands had 47 overs to reach their target but lost Oliver fourth ball to Kirtley for a duck. Stuart Collier then dismissed Nick Hunt for 6 to leave them at 22 for 2. However, ex Eastbourne and Sussex professional, Sean Heather continued his good early season form by getting the innings back on track. He hit 47 before falling to Collier, who also struck soon after getting rid of Danny Cox for 13, with the score at 68 for 4. Australian Nathan Ball then stole the show, his clean striking proved too much for the Eastbourne attack. He struck 6 sixes as Smith's figures took some treatment. Ball continued his personal onslaught as he breezed passed fifty, and was eventually given out for 74 off just 54 balls, swinging the match strongly in favour of the visitors. Victory was eventually completed with just under three overs left as Eastbourne uncharacteristically, lost their second league match in a row.

Eastbourne are in desperate need of the return of at least some of their star players to get the winning habit back, after what has been a very ordinary start to the Sussex League campaign.
First defeat (10/05/08)

Eastbourne 252 for 4 (Mark Tomsett 153no)
Three Bridges 253 for 5
Three Bridges won by 5 wkts

A depleted Eastbourne side endured its first league defeat since August 2006 as they suffered a 5 wicket defeat at Three Bridges despite a superb career best 153 not out from Mark Tomsett. Eastbourne were without Tom Smith, Ollie Rayner and Ragheb Aga due to Sussex commitments and Richard Smith with a knee injury.

Eastbourne batted first on an easy paced track on a ground with some short boundaries. Tomsett lead from the top of the order along with the promoted Jack Hepburn who grafted superbly for his 54 from 124 deliveries. Tomsett struck the ball to all parts as he scored the lion share of the visitors total on his own. His fantastic innings of 153 not out included 18 fours and 4 maximums as Eastbourne closed their innings on 252 for 4 from 58 overs. The only criticism being that there were no other cameos around Tomsett which would have boosted the total somewhat. Danny Alderman was the pick of the home bowlers with 2 for 37.

The ever reliable Stuart Collier picked up the early wicket of Richard Webber for just one and then Michael Norris a short while after for three to leave the hosts on 27 for 2. But skipper Mike Newell struck 53 and James Chadburn hit 36 to get the run chase back on track. Eastbourne were wilting in the heat a bit as some sloppy fielding and in disciplined bowling let Bridges back in with a real chance of victory. Alderman completed a good all-round display with a hard hit 54 from 45 balls. The home side were always up with the run rate and a bludgeoned 40 not out by Sam Alborough at the end ensured the win with seven balls remaining.

Despite the defeat Eastbourne are joint top of the Sussex Premier League with Cuckfield on 42 points. Eastbourne picked up a healthy 12 bonus points something they lacked in last year's campaign.

'Bourne off to a flyer (03/05/08)

Eastbourne 234-7 (Tom Smith 80, Mark Tomsett 60)
Preston Nomads - 99 all out (Stuart Faith 4 for 8, Stuart Collier for 26)
Eastbourne won by 135 runs

Eastbourne Cricket Club got off to the best possible start in their 2008 Sussex Premier League campaign, with a crushing 135 run victory over fellow favourites Preston Nomads.

Nomads won the toss and opted to field first, and Eastbourne openers, skipper Tom Smith and Mark Tomsett took full advantage. They put on 103 for the first wicket, MCC Young Pro Tomsett hit a quality 60 from 83 balls before being dismissed. England Under 19 keeper Ben Brown, who was suffering from tonsillitis but played anyway, could only manage 5. However, Sussex man Ragheb Aga made a fluent 36 from to get the innings back on track along with Smith who passed 50. Aga was then out to a mis-timed slog-sweep for 36. Smith was then stumped by James McKenney off the bowling of Kashif Ibrahim for a solid 80 from 132 deliveries. Martyn Garnett added 16 as the home side eased passed the maximum batting points total of 225 to close the innings on 234 for 7 from the allotted 58 overs. Ibrahim was the pick of the Nomads bowlers with 3 for 51.

The visitors reply got off to a bad start losing Hugo Shepard for a duck to the pace of Stuart Collier. There was some hope for Nomads as Jeremy Green (18) and Michael Gould (23) put on 39 for the second wicket but Collier grabbed two more wickets to tighten the Eastbourne grip on the game. Stuart Faith was then introduced making an instant impact by taking a wicket in his first over to dismiss the dangerous Ibrahim for just 1. Aga picked up the wicket of another dangerman Rob Wakeford for 17. Faith also got rid off Aaron Phillips and Nick Hobbs cheaply as the visitors slumped to 56 for 7. Richard Smith then grabbed a wicket with just his third ball of the season taken superbly by Garnett behind the stumps. Nomads tail tried to resist but with so many overs remaining, clinging on for a draw seemed a near impossible task as Faith came back into the attack to remove Steve Rigg and finish with incredible figures of 4 for 8 for 8.2 overs as they crumbled to 99 all out. Collier who was as impressive ended up with 4 for 26, as Eastbourne stamped their authority on their intent for the season ahead.

Eastbourne 249 for 8 (Aga 105 not out, M.Tomsett 28)
Preston Nomads 232 for 8 (Faith 3 for 26, T.Smith 3 for 55)
Match Drawn

Both Preston Nomads and Eastbourne, who met at Fulking, went into their final game knowing that if Brighton failed to win an outright victory for either would give them the title. A high scoring draw saw both, in the end, overtaken by Cuckfield but the draw meant Eastbourne went through the season unbeaten.

Batting first Eastbourne lost early wickets but a fine 105 not out from former Kenya World Cup player Ragheb Aga (right) and 28 from Mark Tomsett helped them to 249 for 8 declared. Carl Simon took 3 for 69 and Jeremy Green 2 for 38.

In reply Nomads finished 18 short of victory with two wickets standing at 232 for 8 as Aaron Phillips hit 89 not out and Jeremy Green made 41. For Eastbourne Stuart Faith took 3 for 26 and Tom Smith 3 for 55.

So Brighton and Hove have won the Sussex Cricket League title for the third time in their history and for the first time for seven years. In a nail-biting final day they beat Three Bridges by six wickets, led home by their skipper Dominic Clapp. He hit 90 not out to total 1029 runs for the season, only the third player ever to make more than 1000 in a League season.

Cuckfield jumped above Preston Nomads and Eastbourne to clinch second place with a spectacular 215 run victory against Horsham, just a single point separated the three clubs immediately behind Brighton and Hove.

Seconds are CHAMPIONS! (01/09/07)

Preston Nomads 184 for 9 (Funnell 4 for)
Eastbourne 186 for 6 (Trubshaw 65*, L.Tomsett 53)
EB won by 4 wkts

Twos skipper Mark Trubshaw (pictured) put in a true leader's performance as the 2nd XI clinched the Division One title in winning style. Trubshaw in his first season as skipper, hit 65 not out to steer home the twos as the 'bourne picked up 28 points over Preston Nomads. EB needed just a point going into the game, but four wickets from Simon Funnell restricted the visitors to 184 for 9. The 'bourne lost a few cheap wickets but captain Trubshaw and Luke Tomsett (53) saw the hosts through to a famous title win.

Special mentions must go to Luke Tomsett who scored 520 in just 7 matches at an average of over 100. Simon Funnell was the spearhead of the EB attack throughout the season, grabbing 40 league wickets. Russ Varney played only 8 matches but still notched over 450 runs. And finally to Trubshaw who juggled the pack tremendously throughout a long season to see the 'bourne crowned as champs.

Twenty20 Cup Final misery (27/08/07)

Cuckfield 227 for 4
Eastbourne 134 all out (M.Tomsett 58, Garnett 32)
Cuckfield won by 93 runs

A severely weakened EB side were crushed in the Sussex Twenty20 Cup by much fancied Cuckfield. EB were dealt a massive blow ahead of the final with the news that all 4 of their county players had to travel to Wales for a second XI game starting the following day. So without Ollie Rayner, skipper Tom Smith, Ben Brown and Ragheb Aga, EB headed into the final some what depleted from the side that cruised past Steyning in the semi.

Cuckfield won the toss and batted and rattled up a huge 227 for 4 in their 20 overs. Zimbabwaean Jason Oates smashed 99 along with Pakistani all-rounder Saeed Ajmal who made a hard hit 73. All of the EB bowlers getting put to the sword on the back pitch at Preston Noamds' ground, in which must be said the boundaries were very short straight.

However, EB were up with the rate after 5 overs as openers Mark Tomsett (pictured) (58) and Martyn Garnett (32) blasted the ball to all parts. Put a wicket was inevitable and a late flurry of dismissals in a vain attempt to keep up with the required rate meant EB were skittled for just 134. Chris Mole grabbing 4 for 15 along with Ajmal amd Oates with two wickets apiece.

Cuckfield worthy winners, but EB left to think what might have been given the opportunity to field their full team.

Semi Final
Eastbourne 198 for 5 (Aga 54, M.Tomsett 33 not, Rayner 29)
Steyning 134 all out (Tom Smith 3 for 19, Richard Smith 2 for 6)
EB won by 64 runs

Brighton 231 for 5 (Faith 3 for 50)
Eastbourne 232 for 5 (Rayner 117, M.Tomsett 38)
EB won by 5 wkts

Brighton and Hove would win the Sussex Premier League if they take 22 points from Saturday’s final home game against Three Bridges.

But if they fail to win last year’s champions Preston Nomads could retain their title with a win against Eastbourne or an Eastbourne win in that game could give them the title for the first time in eleven seasons.

Eastbourne retained their unbeaten record at home to Brighton and Hove on Saturday despite 104 from Brighton skipper Dominic Clapp helping his side to 231 for 5 declared after being put in. Stuart Faith took 3 for 50 and there was a wicket for Ollie Rayner and Richard Smith. EB picking no bowling points after inserting the visitors.

Sussex youngster Ollie Rayner (pictured) then cracked 117, his maiden EB ton in what was imply a master-class in batting. Mark Tomsett 38 and skipper Tom Smith 23 not out also weighed in to take Eastbourne to victory at 232 for 5, Matt Wood taking 3 for 62.

Basically a massive game on Saturday for EB at Preston Nomads aswell as the game involving Brighton.

'Bourne beaten by Academy (19/08/07)

Eastbourne 102 for 4 (Faith 44)
Sussex Academy 105 for 4 (R.Smith 2 for 28)
Sussex Academy won by 6 wkts

A rain hit Saffrons meant its proposed league fixture against the Sussex Academy was reduced to a Twenty20 affair. The winners picking up 16 points and the losers 10. Eastbourne were in big trouble after winning the toss being 10 for 3. However, skipper Tom Smith (27 not out) and Stuart Faith (44) rescued the EB innings as they closed the 20 overs on 102 for 4 on a green one.

The Academy were always up with the rate in pursuit of the runs. Richard Smith picked up two wickets but it was Michael Gould made 31 not out and saw the youngsters home.

The game is registered as an abandonment so technically EB are still unbeaten in the league due to the revised format of the game. However they remain 18 points behing leaders Brighton.

Horsham 223 for 6 (T.Smith 4 for 56)
Eastbourne 67 for 1 (Garnett 41)
Match Abandoned - rain

EB settle for draw in big clash (11/08/07)

Cuckfield 237 for 7 (R.Smith 3 for 19, Rayner 3 for 89)
Eastbourne 173 for 8 (Garnett 36, M.Tomsett 32)
Match Drawn

ECC drew their third league match in a row against under-rated Cuckfield at a sun-kissed Saffrons. The visitors won the toss and batted first and the Mole brothers led the way, Tom hitting 78 and Chris 38. The 'bourne with James Kirtley and Ollie Rayner in their ranks, found wickets hard to come by due to Cuckfield's top order resistance. Youngster James Thorpe added 40 not out, before golden-arm Richard Smith grabbed 3 for 19 from 6 overs. Rayner ending up with 3 for 89 from 24 overs as the hosts were set 238 for victory.

EB got off to a sluggish start with the bat, being 51 for 1 at the 20 over drinks break. Falling behind the rate rapidly the game was destined for a draw as Cuckfield also found wickets a struggle. Martyn Garnett crashed 36, along with stand-in skipper Mark Tomsett who made 32. Rayner made 21 and Stuart Faith weighed in with 20 as Steffan Piolet was the pick of the visitors bowlers with 4 for 37.

Its all very tight at the top of the SPL with less than 29 points separating the top 4. ECC have that vital game in hand on the other three sides, also having to play two of them in the run in. Its all set up for a grand finale.

ECC game in hand is on Sunday 19th August vs. Sussex Academy at the Saffs, 12pm start.

Eastbourne 235 for 9 (Cane-Hardy 68, Garnett 46)
Steyning 200 for 9 (R.Smith 4 for 44)
Match Drawn

EB had to endure a frustrating draw for the second week running in their SPL clash at Steyning. EB were missing skipper Tom Smith, Ben Brown, Ollie Rayner and Ragheb Aga but came within one wicket of victory at their lowly rivals.

The 'bourne won the toss and batted and it was Simon Cane-Hardy (pictured right) who led the way with classy 68. He was well supported by Martyn Garnett who made a season's beat 46. Jack Hepburn also weighed in with 32 as EB got their batting points. Ben Buckley took 4 for 53 for the hosts.

Steyning were never in contention of winning the match losing wickets at regular intervals. This was mainly thanks to the in-form Richard Smith (pictured left) who grabbed 4 for 44 from 18 overs. Stuart Collier and Stuart Faith both chipped in with a couple of wickets and there was a run out for good measure. However, the 'bourne had three overs at the last pair but could not break the resistance and had to settle for a 14 point draw.

Eastbourne 167 for 9 (Hill 57, Aga 39)
Hastings 165 for 6 (R.Smith 3 for 19)
EB won by 2 runs

A thrilling game at Hastings saw EB reach finals day of the Twenty20 Sussex League Cup. Eastbourne won the toss and batted first, Aussie Zach Hill (pictured) led the way with 57, while the in-form Rags Aga crashed 39 as EBs run rate was above 8 an over for most of their innings. Stuart faith hit a quick 18 at the end as the 'bourne finished on 167 for 9 from their 20 overs.

Hastings opener Jason Finch was the mainstay for the hosts as he hit 62. South African Keegan Africa also hit 30. The home side seemed destined for a place in the semis needing only 7 an over with 7 overs and 8 wickets remaining. However, an inspired spell by Richard Smith (4-0-19-3) turned the game on its head as Hastings fell 2 short of their target after needing 14 from the last over.

Bore draw at rain hit Saffrons (28/07/07)

Eastbourne 164 for 7 (Faith 39, Brown 38)
Three Bridges 141 for 6 (Collier 4 for 16)
Match Drawn

There was all sorts of discussion at the Saffrons where the choice of pitch on which to play was discussed and the start was delayed for nearly an hour in the game between Eastbourne and Three Bridges. Eventually the home side were put in and made 164 for 7 with 39 from Stuart Faith and 38 from England Under-19 cap Ben Brown. Tyrone Gamage was the pick of the Bridges’ bowlers, he took 3 for 38.

The visitors struggled for runs and, at stumps, had reached 141 for 6 with James Chadburn their top scorer, he made 43. For Eastbourne Stuart Collier took 4 for 16.

Eastbourne 167 for 9 (Hill 57, Aga 39)
Hastings 165 for 6 (R.Smith 3 for 19)
EB won by 2 runs

A thrilling game at Hastings saw EB reach finals day of the Twenty20 Sussex League Cup. Eastbourne won the toss and batted first, Aussie Zach Hill led the way with 57, while the in-form Rags Aga crashed 39 as EBs run rate was above 8 an over for most of their innings. Stuart faith hit a quick 18 at the end as the 'bourne finished on 167 for 9 from their 20 overs.

East Grinstead 122 all out (Rayner 8 for 30)
Eastbourne 125 for 2 (Collier 49 not out)
EB won by 8 wkts

Eastbourne continue to head the Sussex Premier League table and retained their unbeaten record by comfortably winning by eight wickets at home to East Grinstead.

The return of Sussex off-spinner Ollie Rayner (pictured) to the Eastbourne side saw the youngster destroy the East Grinstead batting with magnificent figures of 8 for 30 to send the visitors tumbling to 122 all out of which teenager Toby Margetts made top score of 60.

Eastbourne then made short work of their victory charge. Mark Tomsett made 42 and Stuart Collier, promoted in the batting order, hit 49 not out in a total of 123 for 2 to provide a ninth win of the season for the League leaders.

Eastbourne 218/5 (Tom Smith 80, Raj Aga 61),
St.James 111. (Funnell 3 for 18)
EB won by 107 runs

Hastings 270/4 dec.(12 pts)(Richard Young 99 not out,Toby Finzel 65)
Eastbourne 271/5 (20 pts)(Raj Aga 126 not out, Zak Hill 82).
EB won by 5 wkts

Eastbourne have extended their lead at the top of the Sussex Premier League after an entertaining win chasing a big total at Hastings.

Eastbourne decided to field first at Horntye Park against Hastings and took two early wickets to reduce their hosts to 34 for 2 but a third wicket partnership of 125 between Toby Finzel(65) and Richard Young(99 not out) helped to swell their score while some robust hitting from Keegan Africa, who made 36 produced a challenging total of 270 for 4 declared from 58 overs. Stuart Faith, Chad Chisholm and Simon Funnell took a wicket each for the visitors.

With their early batting crumbling to 70 for 4, and the required run rate approaching 9 an over , Eastbourne’s task looked almost impossible. But an amazing innings of 126 not out from former Kenyan World Cup player Raj Aga (pictured) and 82 from Aussie Zak Hill saw 189 added for the fourth wicket and they eventually won by six wickets with eleven balls to spare. For Hastings there were two wickets each for Keegan Africa and Tim van Noort.

The wet conditions and heavy rain caused all Sussex League games to be abandoned and a start was only possible in two Premier League games. At Eastbourne the League leaders put lowly Lewes Priory in and Stuart Collier had Nick Walters caught at slip from the first ball. A ball later and down came the rains for the match to be called off with Lewes Priory 0 for one wicket.

Exciting Draw at Hove (23/06/07)

Brighton 256 for 7 (Garnett 3 for 26)
Eastbourne 253 for 9 (T.Smith 93 not out, Ben Brown 73)
Match Drawn

Leaders Eastbourne and second placed Brighton and Hove are separated by just a single point at the top of the Sussex Premier League. The two battled out an exciting draw on Saturday with Eastbourne 9 wickets down and just 3 short of their host’s declared total.

Gurik Randhawa hit form with the bat for Brighton and Hove as he made 106 in a score of 256/7 declared.Skipper Dominic Clapp made 39 while, for Eastbourne, the unlikely bowling of Martin Garnett was rewarded with figures of 3 for 26. Eastbourne looked to be in trouble in their run chase as they lost two early wickets and Rag Aga retired with a shoulder injury. But Ben Brown with 73 and skipper Tom Smith (pictured), who made 93 not out helped build a total to challenge the home side but they could not get the seven required from the final over to win, they even lost a wicket in that over which left Brighton four balls to win the game.

Eastbourne 181 for 9 (T.Smith 52, Aga 32, Faith 32)
Horsham 169 (Faith 5 for 44)
EB won by 12 runs

Eastbourne have extended their lead at the top of the Sussex Premier League to 34 points following their seventh victory in eight starts so far this season, the latest at home to Horsham.

Eastbourne batted first at the Saffrons to make a relatively modest 181 for 9 declared with skipper Tom Smith hitting 52 and Raj Aga and Stuart Faith each contributing 32.But Horsham were dismissed for just 169 of which Andrew Hillman made to score of 45 not out.Stuart Faith took 5 for 44 for the winners and there were two wickets each for Tom Smith and Stuart Collier.

Cuckfield 230 for 5
Eastbourne 231 for 6 (Aga 55, T.Smith 45 not out, Cane-Hardy 39)
EB won by 4 wkts

Cuckfield set a relatively tough target for Eastbourne in making 230 for 5 declared of which Marc Gardner made 73,Peter Widdup a quick 42 and Chris Mole 31, for the visitors Sussex players Ollie Rayner and James Kirtley were among the wickets, Kirtley taking 2 for 39 and Rayner 2 for 84.
It took Eastbourne 51 overs to win at 231 for 6 as skipper Tom Smith made 45, Simon Cane-Hardy 39 and Raj Aga a rapid 55 to take their team home with an over to spare.
For the home side Saeed Ajmal took 3 for 59 and Stefan Piolet 2 for 29.

Firsts survive relegation scare (02/09/06)

Cuckfield 191 for 8 (Ragheb Aga 3 for 48)
Match Abandoned - Rain

For the second week running and for the SIXTH time this season ECC had their Sussex Premier League fixture runined by the weather. Persistent rain sprawled across the south of England as Cuckfield after 45 overs were 191 for 8 with the game nicely poised. Ragheb Aga took 3 for 48 and Stuart Collier took two wickets before the downpours arrived.

Any relegation fears were banished quite quickly as news filtered through from other games that they too had also been abandoned. Last year's champions, Chichester, will be playing their cricket in Division 1 in 2007 after their match at newly crowned champions, Preston Nomads, was washed out in the early stages of the match. St. James also join them in the division below after they were relegated a couple of weeks ago.

ECCs 1st & 2nd XIs fixtures versus Hastings both fell victims to the heavy south coast rain. A depleted fiirst XI, due to the Sussex CCC players being unavailable because of their club's Lord's final, did not even bowl a ball in anger at their hosts and took home 8 points for the abandonment.

The seconds played a little cricket before the afternoon downpour halted proceedings. Hastings were 45 for 2 from 18 overs when play was officially over for the day.

The 1st XI now need 11 points to make absolute certain of safety in their final fixture of the season on Saturday at home to Cuckfield. Depending on results elsewhere, they may require less than that. But the 'bourne will be gunning for a maximum 30 to round off their season in style.

Chichester 193 for 8 (Tom Smith 4 for 48)
Eastbourne 181 for 9 (Ragheb Aga 46, Tim Freeburn 29)
Match Drawn

Current Sussex Premier League champions Chichester made ECC hang on for a draw at The Saffrons on a blustery Saturday afternoon.
EB asked their vistiors to bat first after winning the toss. A good opening stand between Danny Oliver (64) and ex Eastbourne run getter, Sean Heather (23) made times hard for the 'bourne but the introduction of the ever-reliable Tom Smith (19-6-48-4) brought inroads for the hosts. David Leaver chipped in with 37 for Chi as Richard Smith also weighed in with two wickets. Ragheb Aga also bowled superbly picking up one wicket and there was a 30 yard direct hit run out from Mark Tomsett. Chi finishing their 58 overs on 193 for 8.

A horrendous call for a second by Tomsett led to his downfall as Eastbourne made an edgy start. Aga looked in fine touch with the willow as he hit a cultured 46. Jack Hepburn (27) and Tom Smith (24) gave him good support but wickets fell cheaply including danger-man Ben Brown who was dismissed for a duck. The second spell of Pakistan quickie Fazal Akbar (3 for 50) paid dividends as his late reverse swing caused havoc among the lower order. But brave innings from Tim Freeburn (29) and Charlie Hincliffe (22 not out) ensured EB held on for a draw.

Preston Nomads 196 for 7 (Ollie Rayner 3 for 52, Tom Smith 3 for 61)
Eastbourne 199 for 8 (Ben Brown 96, Ollie Rayner 52)
Eastbourne won by 2 wkts

Another masterful knock from 17 year old wicket-keeper Ben Brown enabled ECC to claim a thrilling 2 wicket win at home to big spending league leaders Preston Nomads.

Nomads won the toss and decided to bat. Opener Andy Hobbs hit 60 as the visitors were at one stage in command at 102 for 1 but the introduction of the returning spin duo Ollie Rayner and Tom Smith paid dividends. Bowling in tandem for a near 30 odd overs EB strangled the oppositions batting line up with a steady flow of wickets. Smith and Rayner sharing six wickets between them, the other one being picked up by Richard Smith. Nomads' Ollie Gatting (35 not out) provided some late fireworks as the title favourites ended up with 196 for 7.

The heaven's opened at tea and well over an hour of play was lost. EB were given a revised 46 overs to chase down their target of 197. After losing openers Jack Hepburn and Luke Tomsett cheaply that paved the way for Brown and Rayner to srut their stuff with the bat. Rayner, looking in awesome touch passed fifty but then tried a slog sweep in which he holed out on the boundary for 52. Brown then went up a gear as the run rate hovered around six an over. He crunched sixes and fours galore as partners came and went until he missed a straight one from Nick Hobbs (5 for 62) for a superb 96. Tim Freeburn was given run out in what can only be described as a dubious decision by the umpire, leaving the 'bourne needing 2 off 2 balls for victory. Richard Smith strode out to the middle and with thickest off edges through the abandoned slip cordon the ball sailed to the boundary to claim a famous win.

Eastbourne 177 for 9 (James Kirtley 52 not out, Martyn Garnett 34, Richard Smith 34)
East Grinstead 181 for 4
East Grinstead won by 6 wkts

The availability of James Kirtley (right) was a big boost to the EB side that went to East Grinstead, but it was not enough to stop them crashing to a 6 wicket defeat.

Skipper Martyn Garnett won a rare toss and decided to bat first, in a line up that was missing the influential Ollie Rayner and Tom Smith. Former West Indian Test bowler, Vasbert Drakes had EB reeling taking four of the first six wickets as they were really struggling at 58 for 6. Opener garnett was still there in a innings that was briefly halted due to a couple of blows to the arm. He and Richard Smith (34) both batted patiently before Garnett was stupidly run out for 34. Kirltey then arrived at the crease and made his mark on the game with the bat for a change. In his maiden league fifty were 4 sixes as he helped the 'bourne up to 177 for 9 from their 58 overs. Drakes ending up with 4 for 51 for Grinstead.

Kirtlet struck early with the ball twice, the home side limping at 18 for 2. However the game was taken over by big hitting Aussie Simon Williamson. In a boundary ridden innings (including a straight six off Kirtley) the task for the bowlers was an extremely tough one without a decent spinner on board. Raj Chaudroy made 54 but it was Williamson who continued to blaze but his luck run out when he went for superb 94. Chad Chisholm picked up a couple of late wickets but it was not enough as the hosts crusied home with wickets and overs in hand.

Three Bridges 222 for 7 (Ollie Rayner 6 for 91)
Eastbourne 223 for 4 (Ben Brown 102 not out, Tom Smith 49)
Eastbourne won by 6 wkts

Sussex youngster Ben Brown (right) stole the show with his first ton for EB as he helped them secure an easy 6 wicket win over Three Bridges. The visitors made 222 for 7 at the Saffrons, with Danny Alderman making 62 not out, Mark Newell 32, Krishna Singh 31 as the 'bourne's other Sussex starlet Ollie Rayner took 6 for 91.

17 year old Brown then made his maiden League century with 102 not out and with Tom Smith hitting 49 Eastbourne reached their target at 223 for 4, Alderman taking 2 for 54 and Steve Brown 2 for 98.

EBs fifth league win means they are sitting in forth spot in the Sussex Premier League.

Horsham 271 for 7
Eastbourne 247 all out (Mark Tomsett 67 not out, Ben Brown 39)
Horsham won by 24 runs

ECC were dumped out of the Sussex Cup by arch rivals Horsham at The Saffrons. The vistiors won the toss and batted on an easy paced pitch. Sussex big guns Andrew Hodd (39) and Chris Nash (74) set the tone for the innings along with pinch-hitter Nick Weekes who made 54. Pakistani Fahaad Mashood hit 54 not out off 34 balls at the end as EB toiled in the searing heat. Tom Smith picked up 3 for 62 and there was one wicket each for James Kirtley, Stuart Collier and Richard Smith as Horsham finished their 45 overs on 271 for 6.

EBs pinch-hitter Kirtley went early along with fellow opener Luke Tomsett. But Ben Brown took the bull by the horns with a destructive 39 from just 23 balls. Mark Tomsett (right) at number 3 played the anchor role as wickets tumbled around him. But good contributions from skipper Martyn Garnett (36), Tom Smith (22) and Richard Smith (17 from 13 balls) gave the hosts a chance. But three late cheap wickets left Tomsett stranded on 67 not out and also meant agony for the' bourne as they lost out again to the old enemy.

ECCs match at Brighton was washed out without a ball being bowled. The two sides have yet to bowl a ball in anger at each other this season as the home fixture in May was also rained off. The heavy overnight and midday storm put paid to any chance of play being possible. 8 points each.

Horsham 253 for 8
Eastbourne 218 for 5 (Tom Smith 82 not out, Charlie Hinchliffe 41 not out)
Match Drawn

On a hot summer's day at The Saffrons, ECC played out an uninspiring draw with arch rivals and current National Cup holders, Horsham, in what was a niggling game of cricket.

The visitors racked up 253 for 8 declared from their 58 overs, Will Howard made 69, Fahad Masood 44 and Michael Thornely 34. For Eastbourne Stuart Collier grabbed 2 for 44 and Tom Smith 3 for 82.

The 'bourne reached stumps at 218 for 5 to produce an unexciting draw. Smith led the home side’s batting as well, he made 82 not out and Charlie Hinchliffe 41 not out in an unbroken 6^th wicket stand after their side had lost early wickets. Masood took 2 for 32 and Mark Nash 2 for 47.

EB face Horsham again next Sunday in the Sussex Cup. The match takes place at the Saffrons with a 1pm start. 45 overs per side.

Eastbourne 229 for 7 (Martyn Garnett 79, Chad Chisholm 41, Tim Freeburn 38 not out)
Cuckfield 179 for 6 (Ollie Rayner 3 for 74)
Match Drawn

ECC held the Sussex Premier League leaders, Cuckfield, to a draw with a much improved performance. The hosts inserted the 'bourne and skipper Martyn Garnett led from the top of the order with a career best 79. Garnett's stamped his authority at the crease with his first scoring shot, a pull for six. Super contributions from Chad Chisholm (41) and Aussie Tim Freeburn (38 not out) meant EB got their maximum batting points ending the innings on a healthy 229 for 7. Cuckfields overseas spinner bowled all day from one end picking up 4 for 36 from 25 marathon overs.

The league leaders were always up against it in reply. Spinner, Ollie Rayner bowled all afternoon from the second over and returned impressive figures of 3 for 74 from 26 overs. Tom Mole was the only batter to provide any real resistance as he top scored with 84. Brother Chris, made 44 not out as the match petered out into a draw in which EB took 13 points.

ECC had former skipper Jon Lord to thank as he was the unlikely hero with the bat as the 'bourne held out for a draw at bottom of the table, St. James.

After winning the toss, the hosts racked up 275 for 6, with a few of the EB bowlers going for some tap as George Martin (65) and Tom Burton (74) were the tormentors in chief with the bat. Ollie Rayner and Stuart Collier each picked up a couple of wickets as a big score was set to chase on a good wicket.

The 'bourne were in real dire straits before Lord came to the rescue, at one point being 102 for 8. No batsman reaching above 20 in the process. However a battling 13 not out from Sam Feasey and Lord (69 not out), a career-best, meant that the 'bourne survived and had to settle for a draw.

On another sweltering day at the Saffrons, Eastbourne never made a serious challenge for victory against Hastings at the Saffrons. The visitors made 225 for 9 declared as stalwart Brad Smith made 88 not out and South African Will Hantam 44, The man so far for the 'bourne this season, Tom Smith (5 for 54) was the pick of the EB bowlers, with the other wickets being shared around.

Chichester 141 all out (Ollie Rayner 4 for 36, Tom Smith 4 for 41)
Eastbourne 142 for 9 (Jack Hepburn 60, Martyn Garnett 34 not out)
Eastbourne won by 1 wkt

ECC chalked up their 4th win of the season as they won at big-spending Chichester by a mere one wicket. On a belting hot day, Eastbourne put Chichester in to bat at Priory Park and dismissed them for just 141 as emerging Sussex youngsters Tom Smith and Ollie Rayner were among the wickets. Smith took 4 for 41 and Rayner 4 for 36 as Jez Goode (29) and Mark Bamford (32) gave Chichester some hope in the low scoring game.

Opener Jack Hepburn was a colossus with the bat making a vital 60 and skipper Martin Garnett 34 not out to give Eastbourne victory at 142 for 9, Fazal e Akbar took 3 for 43 and Steve Sedgely 2 for 16 for Chi. The win moves the 'bourne in second place in the Sussex Premier League.

Eastbourne 157 all out (Ben Brown 39, Tim Freeburn 27)
Three Bridges 117 all out (Stuart Collier 5 for 35)
Eastbourne won by 40 runs

Eastbourne made it two wins in a row as they won at Three Bridges by 35 runs. James Kirtley was included in the Eastbourne side that won a low scoring game at Three Bridges by 37 runs. The former England paceman failed to score with the bat but managed a wicket in the field.

The young pace bowler from Brisbane, Craig Rosario, enjoyed bowling on a seamer friendly pitch to take 7 for 48 as Eastbourne were bowled out for 154, Ben Brown was top scorer, he made 39. Tim Freeburn also weighed in with 27.

The home side then found batting even more difficult, they were eventually dismissed for 117 despite 55 from Jibran Khan as Stuart Collier (above) took 5 for 35 and Jon Lord picked up three cheap wickets.

Sussex Development 237 for 5 (Tom Smith 3 for 58)

Eastbourne 238 for 8 (Ben Brown 57, Tom Smith 40, Tim Freeburn 34, Ollie Rayner 34)
Eastbourne won by 2 wkts

An exciting 2 wicket win was achieved by ECC at home to the Sussex Development XI at the Saffrons on Sunday. A lethargic looking EB in the field were made to suffer by Norris (82 not out) and Michael Thornely (62) as the Sussex youngsters racked up 237 for 5 after being put in by ECC skipper Martyn Garnett. Tom Smith bowled excellently once more taking 3 for 58 from 22 overs.

Mark Tomsett (2) went early in reply for ECC, but a steady knock of 25 by fellow opener and brother, Luke, settled things for EB. Ollie Rayner (34) once again looked in good touch. But the blue touch paper was lit by 'keeper Ben Brown (right). His 57 was as dynamic innings you will see this season and was off only 40 balls. Along with Tim Freeburn (34) and Tom Smith (40) they all really got EB motoring towards victory. Number 9, Jack Hepburn (25 not out) then sealed it as the 'bourne picked up 20 points for the win.

East Grinstead 187 for 8 (Jon Lord 6 for 71)

Eastbourne 125 for 3 (Ollie Rayner 69 not out)
Match Abandoned - Draw

Ollie Rayner looked set to seal victory for Eastbourne at home to East Grinstead with 69 not out in a total of 125 for 3 when rain ended the game with East Grinstead at the Saffrons. With Rayner and Tim Freeburn at the crease, the 'bourne needed 6 an over with 7 wickets in hand and 10 overs left, but the poor recent weather put paid to what looked to be a good climax.

Earlier East Grinstead, with Vaspert Drakes making his first appearance, had struggled to 187 for 8 declared after being put in.

It was another Sussex aspirant, Neil Turk with 69 not out, who had held their innings together and he received some help from Duncan Shoebridge who was 25 not out when the innings closed. For Eastbourne former skipper Jon Lord (right) took 6 for 71, including the first six wickets.

ECC 1st XI were called off at home to Brighton without a ball being bowled. The overnight and early morning rain put paid to any chance of play as water seeped under the covers and saturated the wicket. Umpires called the game off at 1.00pm, meaning 8 points for each side.

A horrendous weekend for ECC was capped by yet another heavy defeat at Sevenoaks in the 2nd Round of the Cockspur National Cup. EB chose to bowl on a green wicket but the short boundary on one side of the ground proved very inviting to the home side as runs flowed throughout their innings. Ollie Ody and Luke Tomsett both picked up 3 wickets, Jack Hepburn (2), Tom Smith (1) and a run out were responsible for the all the dismissals as 241 all out looked a stern test.

Jack Hepburn, Mark Trubshaw, Ben Brown and Luke Tomsett all went very cheaply as EB were in tatters at 12 for 4. D. Ranger (5 for 28) doing the damage and proved to be Sevenoaks' lethal weapon with the ball. Only Sam Feasey (26) and Tom Smith (21) had any scores of respectability about themselves as the 'bourne folded to 99 all out.

ECC were on the receiving end of a drubbing at Horsham on Saturday. The hosts elected to bat after winning the toss, rattling up 270 for 3, chief tormentor was Sussex pro Andrew Hodd who smashed 125. Michael Thornley also hit 71 as the National Club Champions enjoyed a run frenzy. None of the ECC bowlers enjoyed any real success, but Tom Smith did pick up two wickets.

The 'bourne were always struggling in reply as Chris Baker tore through the top order with three wickets. Only Jack Hepburn (22) and Tim Freeburn (24) could manage any respectable score as Chris Nash (3 for 3) mopped up the ECC tail to capitulate them to 100 all out.

Just 10 balls were possible at Preston Nomads before the heavens opened on ECC in the field. With the score at 3 for 0, no further play was possible, so each team took 8 points each for the abandonment.

Eastbourne 255/8 dec (Tim Freeburn 70, Tom Smith 37, Martyn Garnett 34)
St. James 152 all out (Tom Smith 6 for 49, Tim Freeburn 3 for 35)
Eastbourne won by 103 runs

Virtuoso performances from Tom Smith (right) and Tim Freeburn inspired ECC to a maximum 30 point win over a poor St. James' side at the Saffrons, in their opening match of the Sussex Premier League season.

St. James inserted ECC into bat, but it didn't pay off as the 'bourne rattled up 255 for 8 in 52 overs. Tim Freeburn on debut hit 70 batting at 5. Tom Smith looked very good for his 37 before being dismissed rather dubiously. There were also vital contributions from skipper Martyn Garnett (34 from 17 balls!), Mark Trubshaw (29 from 22) and Mark Tomsett (29). The big total set was always going to be an uphill task to chase.

St. James at one point looked in good shape. Tom Burton and Mark Gardner shared in a century stand for the 2nd wicket and at 130 for 1 it looked quite rosy in the St. James' garden. But a monumental collapse followed as Tom Smith got into his rhythm with Tim Freeburn turning it square at the other end. 'Smithers' followed up his 6 wickets at Horsham last week with another six here. Grabbing 6 for 49, while Freeburn weighed in with 3 for 35 as the visitors crumbled to 152 all out.