Openers Set The Scene For Home Win

After last weeks weather ruined game, it was a relief to Seaford 3s to see The Salts in its full splendour with blue sky all around. The visitors Hadlow Down won the toss and elected to field on a new unused strip and what appeared to be a decent batting track. The decision to field ultimately came back to haunt them as Seaford opening pair Rob Gravett (98) and Billy Wootten (33) assisted by some indifferent fielding had raced the score onto 144-0 after 23 overs. The partnership flourished with Gravett, who will take most of the plaudits, in imperious form striking the ball to all parts, but credit must also go to youngster Wootten whose dogged resistance didn’t go unnoticed. The base given by them enabled the other batsmen to push the score along. Gavin Wright (36) and a cameo from Dan Tuite (31no) enabled the home captain to declare with a strong position of 250-5. All the bowlers toiled hard on a tough day for fielding, Steve Bassam (2-26) picking up a couple of late wickets. In reply Hadlow Downs were pegged back by two early wickets from Jon Robards (2-28) to make the score 23-2, before a 50 partnership between K Iqbal (29) and A Fowler (11) started a recovery. However, when Sam Mullett (1-9) had Iqbal caught at mid on, adding to the escalating run rate, it became clear that hopes of victory had probably gone. Wickets started to fall and 73-2 soon became 88-5. S Rogers (30no) held one end together, but Seaford kept chipping away at the other and finally took the last wicket on 166. Tuite (3-32) completing a good all round performance. A good win for the home team totally set up by that opening partnership. Seaford 30pts - Hadlow Down 10pts