Sussex skipper John Simpson won the toss and opted to bat, but Berkshire capitalized on the early conditions. Seamer Andy Rishton dismissed both Tom Haines (4) and Tom Clark (14), putting the visitors on the back foot during a rain-interrupted morning.
After two rain delays, the match was reduced to 47 overs. Oli Carter and Dan Ibrahim returned to the crease with Sussex at 62-2 from 13 overs. Both players, products of the Sussex Cricket Pathway, batted well together, each scoring half-centuries and adding 117 runs for the third wicket. Ibrahim was eventually dismissed for 56 from 60 deliveries, leaving Sussex at 156-3 from 27.3 overs.
Carter fell next after a swift 78, which included six 4s and two 6s. Following these dismissals, rookies Zack Lion-Cachet and Henry Rogers aimed to score quickly. Lion-Cachet raced to 31 from 22 balls, including two 4s and a 6, before being bowled by Sully Akhtar. Rogers (51) and Simpson (50) also scored brisk half-centuries. Brief contributions from Foreman, Lenham, Campbell, and Hunt helped Sussex reach 334 all out in their 47 overs.
In response, Berkshire lost two early wickets. Sussex opened the bowling with left-armers Sean Hunt and debutant Jack Campbell. Campbell made an immediate impact, finding the edge twice in the same over, reducing Berkshire to 26-2 in his second over. He then took a third wicket, further reducing Berkshire to 69-4.
Berkshire’s middle order showed some resistance with Dan Lincoln (28) and Matt Dalrymple (19) sharing a 36-run stand, but both fell in quick succession, leaving the hosts at 109-6 midway through their innings.
Seamer Andy Rishton offered some resistance with a quick 44 from 28 balls before being bowled by Tom Clark. Once Rishton was dismissed, Berkshire’s task became daunting. Opener Rhys Lewis had retired hurt earlier, leaving Sussex needing just one more wicket for victory, which Clark secured.
Men’s 1st XI look ahead to Cheshire CCC
Tom Lambert makes three changes to his red ball side that won their last outing against Cornwall two weeks ago.
Euan Woods and Rhys Lewis sit this weekend out having picked up injuries during the week and they are replaced by 17 year old ex pathway and EPP player James Isbell who is now with Middlesex and the returning Adam Searle who missed the last round of fixtures due to his graduation. Senior spinner Luke Beaven makes his long awaited return having recovered from a serious finger injury to replace Yash Lakhani. Samm Daniel will be performing 12th man duties for the three days.
“It’s disappointing to lose Woodsy and Rhys for this weekend as both have been in fine form this summer. Injuries are a part of a long summer and we hope to have them both back as soon as possible.”
“We’re delighted to be able to offer Issy his debut this weekend. It’s always the best part of the job handing out debuts and even more special when it’s to a lad who I first saw when he was just 9 years of age at our indoor school. He was always a high achieving pathway player and has gone on to develop into a fantastic cricketer with Middlesex. We thank them for making him available for us this weekend.”
“It’s lovely to have Bevo back fit and well. Everyone is excited to have him back in the dressing room for the next three days. Searley also returns having no doubt enjoyed his graduation from Cardiff Met!”
“It’s been a great start to the championship campaign and we’ll be looking to keep that momentum going this weekend up in Nantwich. Cheshire is a tough place to come so we’ll need to be spot on if we want to continue our winning ways. We’re looking forward to a tough three days.”