Bognor cricket colts end great season as champions

As the winners of the west district league, Bognor had to play the winners of the north, Barns Green, in a tense semi-final.

Bognor accumulated 142 for six off their 20 overs, Ryan Maskell scoring 74 and backed by good contributions down the order.

In reply, the Bognor bowlers kept it tight - never allowing the hosts to get a head of the run-rate.

Captain Joe Ashmore conceded only 19 off his four overs while Cerri Marsh took three for 22.

With Sargeant and Robinson keeping it tight at the end Barns Green ended on 133 for nine and Bognor were in the final for the first time ever.

Bognor faced reigning champions and eastern-league winners Bexhill under the lights on a superb wicket at the County Ground.

Bognor were asked to field and Bexhill started at a fast rate as openers Edwards and Burgon put on a 117 for the first wicket in 12 overs.

When Ashmore had Edwards stumped by Maskell for 35, the Bognor bowlers slowed the run rate, Robinson had Burgon caught behind for 85 and Paul got an lbw decision which allowed Bexhill to stagger to a total of 184 off their 20 overs.

Bognor’s reply got off to a slippery start as they lost Paul in the first over. However county player Maskell was in determined mood as dispensed the ball to all parts.

Ably supported by Asmore (25), Bognor eased towards the score. Maskell reached his 50 in 35 balls and went on to score 111 not out off 72 balls.

All batsmen played their part in valuable partnerships with Maskell, who was in majestic form.

Bognor reached their target of 185 with five wickets down and nine balls to spare to secure a superb victory and fitting finale to a superb season which has seen them win the league and Champions League and finish as runners-up in county junior festival week.