Emeriti CC

Sussex Martlets vs Emeriti

Worth School – Wednesday 7th August

Emeriti won the toss and, unsurprisingly, invited the Martlets to bat first on a Worth School surface that looked more than ready for a long, restorative break — ideally accompanied by a new square. From the outset, it was clear that runs would have to be earned the hard way.

Despite the challenging conditions, the Martlets’ batting card showed admirable depth. Freddie Ferro’s fluent 41 led the way, while Tayyab Mahmood (34) and Karan Banker (30) also made valuable contributions. Yet on a wicket where the next ball always had a wicket-taking delivery in it, no one was able to push on to a big score. The Martlets were eventually dismissed for 181, a total that felt competitive given the circumstances.

Emeriti’s reply began with intent, spearheaded by C. Booth, who produced the day’s standout innings with a run-a-ball 71, mixing watchful defence with commanding strokeplay. After his departure, Morris steadied the chase with a composed 41, ensuring the visitors kept the scoreboard moving.

The Martlets’ bowling was led by Karan Banker, who backed up his earlier runs with an excellent spell of 3 for 58 from 16 overs, bending his back and finding whatever life there was in the surface. Despite his efforts, Emeriti held their nerve, passing the target with four wickets to spare.

We look forward to welcoming Emeriti again next season — and to playing this fixture on a surface that offers a fairer contest between bat and ball.