ECC 4th XI vs Ferring CC, 2nd XI

Eastergate 4th XI vs Ferring CC 2nd XI

Sea Lane | Sussex League

Eastergate 4th XI marked a landmark day in the club’s history on Saturday as four senior sides represented the club in the Sussex League for the very first time.

The occasion was made even more special with a host of senior league debuts for Susie Grant, Toby McMullen, Oscar McMullon, Reuben Whiteside, Will Lake and Rob Lake, including another proud father-and-son pairing for the club with Rob and Will taking the field together.

After winning the toss, Eastergate elected to bowl first at Sea Lane against a strong Ferring 2nd XI side. The inexperienced but enthusiastic attack showed great spirit throughout the innings, with William Lake producing an outstanding spell on debut, returning figures of 1-9 from five overs including a maiden. Reuben Whiteside also impressed with excellent control, conceding just 12 runs from his five overs.

Ian Booker claimed a wicket during his eight-over spell, while Thijs Geraets and Pete Edwards both chipped in with a wicket apiece. Despite the effort and energy in the field, Ferring’s greater experience saw them post 179-5 from their 40 overs.

Chasing 180, Eastergate found themselves under early pressure against a disciplined Ferring bowling attack. Pete Edwards made 21 at the top of the order before Rob Lake led the resistance with a determined 33 from 38 balls, including five boundaries, in a memorable innings on his senior league debut.

There were also contributions from Kirsty Booker (10), Reuben Whiteside (7) and Oscar McMullon (3), while extras added a valuable 18 runs to the total. Despite battling throughout the innings, Eastergate were eventually bowled out for 103 in 35.5 overs.

Although the result did not go Eastergate’s way, the scoreline was secondary on a memorable afternoon for the club. The debutants all played their part, valuable experience was gained across the side, and the day represented another important step forward for Eastergate Cricket Club as it continues to grow.