TODAY IS:

Forest Row, in partnership with Douche, visited Hayward’s Heath to play St. Francis. St. Francis won the toss and inserted Row on to a wicket garnished by white, dry grass. Row opened with Jackson and Francis. Francis in particular set about in a positive vein, finding the boundary and clearing it once – when a miss-judgement brought his downfall, castled for 25. Whilst Jackson (29) accumulated, injudicious shots on a lively wicket witnessed the dismissal of most of the following batsmen. Some fine catching backed up some fine bowling as Row subsided to a disappointing 160. Julius the chief tormentor, taking 6-45.

In reply, Row needed to make some early in-roads, Julius (13) & Ruwan (4) started in a positive fashion. They added 18 when Hillen ruined Ruwans’ day – caught behind. A smart piece of fielding by Britt and a neat gather by Hillen run out Julius. However, there was little of both to follow as Deeshan threw the bat with great effect. He was ably supported by David, as the pair added 99 for the third wicket. Both generally and Deeshan in particular - rode their luck. They took advantage of some poor fielding and catching, when Edwards induced another miss-hit – this time caught by Woodward for a swashbuckling 66. David then upped the ante, bringing up his own fifty. Kavindra (15*) sealed the win with a six. Row left to rue the missed chances that cost the game.

Forest Row 160 (42.3) Jackson 29, Francis 25. Julius 10.3-2-45-6

St. Francis 166-3 (22.1) Deeshan 66, David 53*