A really enjoyable week as over 70 people played cricket and all the teams secured wins, apart from the 2nd Xl. The only blip was the return of rain which got in the way of practice sessions.
On Saturday 16 May the 1st Xl travelled to newly relegated Mayfield, to record their first win of the League season. Rye posted a score of 194 all out in 42.2 overs. A tricky innings as rain interrupted the Rye batters and the game had to be played on a practice wicket.
Overseas Cornel Swart top scored with 44 supported by James Hamilton 38, and Cameron Cummings 31. K.Harding 4-33 was the pick of the Mayfield bowlers. Mayfield in reply struggled early on as Cornel Swart took 4-45 and Craig Pierce took 2-22 in 9 overs. Mayfield rallied from 100-6 to record a 61 run partnership led by H Lloyd 61 and K Joshi 40, Fred Mackenzie 2-29 saw the breakthrough and Mayfield were dismissed 23 runs short.
Next Saturday the 1sts travel to Brighton to play St Peters.
The 2nds slipped to a second successive defeat at home to Bells Yew Green 2nds. Rye batted first and struggled early on to 60-4. They recovered thanks to Paul Hitchcott 75 and youngster Oscar Wincott-Stone 20, who shared an 80 run partnership. Once they were dismissed Rye were all out for 164 in the 37th over.
Rye made a positive start taking two early wickets, 13-2, but from then onwards Bells Yew Green dominated as they raced past the target in just 24 overs as Vishal Pundir hit 84 NO and Joe Smiley 64 NO. This week Rye 2nds host Kerala Strikers in a match sponsored by The Mermaid Inn.
The 3rds recorded a second successive victory, defeating Crowhurst Park 4ths by 40 runs. Rye posted 239-5 thanks to Ross Pierce 108 NO and Alan Morris 54. In reply The Park ended on 199-8 in 40 overs. Neil Archer, Ross Pierce and Skipper Ed Prentice each took 2 wickets. Next Saturday the 3rds have a free week, but play a friendly on Monday at The Salts against a Touring side Eltham CC.
The Juniors produced three positive results. The Under 13s travelled to Wye and chased down a target of 128. Wye lost only two wickets, but Rye eased past the target in the 18th over, having lost five wickets. Charlie Cooke 30 NO, Archie Adams 26 and Aubrey Tyson 32 NO secured the victory.
The Under 11a beat Ashford Under 11a by 40 runs. 107-3 played 77-5. George Carey 15 top scored and then with Ollie Fitch took two wickets apiece. The Under 11b also won by 40 runs, against Wye U11b. Wye scored 57-5 whilst Rye posted 97-3. Pick out performance was by Rafferty Davis with three wickets, a run out and top scored, whilst Manu Drane excelled as the wicket keeper. It’s half term next week so no junior fixtures.
Our sponsor feature this week is Skinners of Rye, who are sponsoring our adult shirts for a third successive year.

For two decades, Skinners of Rye has been at the heart of the local community, building a reputation as one of the area’s most trusted and customer-focused automotive businesses. Since the current management team took over in 2006, the company has grown into a major local employer, now supporting more than 50 jobs while continuing to invest heavily in the future of the business and the community it serves.
From vehicle servicing and accident repairs to quality used car sales, Skinners of Rye has become the go-to destination for motorists across the area. The business now services more than 500 vehicles every month and manages repairs and accident work for over 100 vehicles monthly — a reflection of the trust local customers place in the team and the consistently high standards delivered.
With more than 50 vehicles available for retail sale and a strong reputation for customer care, Skinners of Rye prides itself on delivering a “main dealer” level experience without the hidden costs often associated with larger national brands. The company’s focus on value, transparency and service excellence has helped it become a genuine local success story.
Talking with Gary Barlow, the owner and Managing Director of Skinners of Rye … “Beyond the business itself, Skinners of Rye is passionate about giving back to the community, with a strong commitment to supporting local sports clubs and community initiatives. We see local partnerships as an important way to invest in the people and organisations that help make Rye such a strong and vibrant community.”
As Skinners of Rye continues to grow, its commitment remains unchanged: providing exceptional automotive services, supporting local employment and playing an active role in the success of the local community.
Skinners of Rye are proud sponsors of Rye Cricket Club.

Image Credits: Martin Blincow .

