BEXHILL can clinch promotion from Sussex Cricket League Division Four East on Saturday.
An eight-wicket thumping of Hastings & St Leonards II last Saturday (Aug 30), means they are in pole position for at least the second automatic spot when they host East Grinstead II in their final game (Sept 6). A minimum of three points will ensure promotion.
Captain Ben Phillimore is taking nothing for granted but said: “To achieve promotion this season would be above and beyond our wildest dreams. Vice-captain Scott and I are immensely proud of the lads for sticking together and playing some terrific cricket this season.
“It has been hard work, but I would be really honoured if we achieve this in our 150th anniversary year. I would like to make a special mention to Hamish Russell, our chairman, and all our committee members who have been integral in driving our success.”
Victories over Chiddingly and Ditchling have kept momentum high, with Australian import Danul Dassanayake making a superb 128-run knock in the latter win. Key contributions have also come from Taylor Wickenden, Paul Crittenden, Kieran Malone and Scott Woodroffe.
The club is celebrating 150 years this season. Cricket Week was a huge success as Marylebone Cricket Club visited for a prestigious friendly.
Chairman Hamish Russell said: “Our MCC game, and the whole day, was incredible. In fact, apart from the weather on the Monday afternoon, the week really could not have gone any better.
“Over 200 people attended the MCC game with some travelling from overseas to be there and players from winning league teams in the 1970s, 80s and 90s all getting together again. The MCC won the actual game but the result was inconsequential.
“The highlights included the ceremonial opening of the game by the Bexhill Town Crier, the get-together of old players from our 1977 East Sussex League winning team and the 1997 Sussex League winning team and the club photo taken during the tea break.”
