Sussex VI Sharks Win on Opening Day of Season

Sussex VI Sharks (Visually Impaired) opened their account in the Blind Cricket England and Wales (BCEW) National Division 1 at Ansty CC on Saturday 23rd April.

In bright, but windy conditions, the hosts were asked to bat and looked in a touch of trouble having lost both openers for 26. However, a blazing 72 off 30 deliveries from skipper, Dan Field, supported by Phil Daniels (90* not out) steadied the ship and pushed the run rate up to well over 10 an over.

After Dan Field's departure Toby Collins hit a rapid 48* not out and the Sharks declared at the end of the 21st over on an impressive 265-3.

The BCEW league format meant the VI Sharks had a maximum 34 overs to dismiss Somerset for the win.

The Somerset openers survived the opening 6 overs, but it was clear there was no intention to try and chase down the score with just 10 runs being scored. The VI Sharks began to apply pressure with all 10 fielders forming a circle within 15 metres of the bat.

The breakthrough came when Sussex deployed their totally blind bowlers. Dave Daniels (2 for 8) and Tiny Morris (2 for 27) knocked over the top order.

The pressure was further increased by Alex Towers taking 3 wickets for 3 runs. Somerset were finally dismissed for 57 in the 18th over.

Sussex travel to League champions Northants on Saturday 7th May, who will be looking to bounce back from bruising opening day defeat at the hands of last year’s runners up, London Metro.

Thanks go to Ansty CC for being such amazing hosts and to Webtrends Optimize for their sponsorship of the new match shirts.