Sidley rediscover scoring form

Although on the end of a three wicket defeat, Sidley at least had the satisfaction of posting a decent total. In fact their score of 203 all out was nearly five times as many as they managed in the 10-wicket humbling at the hands of Stirlands on the opening day of the Sussex Cricket League season.

"It was a top effort from everyone," said Haffenden. "It was a decent score after the week before and even though we lost everyone was upbeat afterwards."

Put into bat, Sidley were well served by Haffenden (35), Peter King (34) and Tyrone Wildman (30), while four other batsmen, including young Jake Beale (14) in only his second 1st XI match, also reached double figures but no one went on to make a big score. Pick of the visiting bowlers was Amit Jaggernauth who finished with 6-66.

When it came to Sidley's turn to take to the field, they found themselves having to deal with the worst of the drizzly weather conditions.

King snapped up an early wicket to warm the home side but two profitable partnerships of 68 for the second wicket and 99 for the third meant Lewes were always in the driving seat. James Chetwood (57 off 68 balls), Michael Murray (53) and Jonathan Aspden (45) piled on the runs before Sidley snapped up four wickets for 15 runs. Lewes ended the day on 207-7.

New overseas signing Kashif Rasheed marked his debut by picking up 3-67 off 17 overs. "He bowled well and held up one end for most of the innings," said Haffenden. "He batted solidly and looks like he will build a few big knocks."

Sidley visit Littlehampton on Saturday May 13.