This Saturday 18 April, Rye Cricket Club get their 2026 season underway, the 273rd season of cricket in Rye. The 1st Xl play a pre-season friendly versus Tenterden from the Kent County League.
Rye will feature overseas player Cornel Swart who has arrived from South Africa. He will be featuring as an opening bowler and middle order batter. The following Saturday the 1st Xl host Walmer in another pre season fixture, and the 2nd Xl will be playing away in a friendly versus Crowhurst Park 2nds.
Rye will have three Saturday League teams this year, playing in the Sussex County League. The juniors will have four teams, two at under 11, one each under 13 and under 16. They play in the Ashford and District Junior League.
Junior signing-on night is at the Cricket Salts on the 27 April from 6pm to 8pm. The cost is £80 which covers 12 weeks of two hours of practice, all match fees, a club shirt and family membership of Rye Cricket Club. Payment can be made in instalments.
The junior section also has a softball option. On Sunday mornings starting 17 May we will be offering All Stars for 5-8 year olds from 10am to 11am and Cricket Dynamos for 9-11 years 11am to noon. The perfect way to get into cricket. You can sign up here.
This season there will be a Spirit of Cricket Award for the junior player who has embodied the spirit of cricket – “That is to embrace the enjoyment of playing cricket, win or lose, to respect all players, coaches and umpires, and to help wherever needed with the running of the club.”
This award will be presented by Stephen and Helen Jempson in memory of their son George Jempson, at the junior presentation on 5 September. Each year the winner will have their name placed on the new Spirit of Cricket Award honours board in the pavilion.
The Rye Cricket Salts are all ready for cricket this season due to the hard work of club members, planning, raising funds, spending time on the roller, mower and outfield mower, and ensuring all the ground equipment is ready.
To get involved with either the Saturday League cricket or one of our junior teams or sections then contact club secretary Martin Blincow on 07535482006 or blincsfamily@aol.com
Image Credits: Martin Blincow .