Askew frustrated with Wisborough's approach

Tom Lee fell eight runs short of his century in Littlehampton's winning draw on Saturday

Askew won the toss and decided to have a bat on what appeared to be a flat surface at the Sportsfield.

That decision proved correct as Louis Paul hit 139, while Tom Lee struck 92, before Littlehampton declared on 275 for three after 47 overs.

But any hopes of a win for the home side were dashed as Byron Napper ended unbeaten on 104 and Jack Carter was not out on 48 as Wisborough finished on 217-3 from 47 overs.

Skipper Askew was left angered at Wisborough’s batting effort in the chase and said: “I felt Saturday was a really poor advert for league cricket.

“We declared and felt with the surface they had a chance of getting that target but they just shut up shop from ball one. Looking at it, they ended up just over 50 runs short with seven wickets left and could well have go on to win.

“If a batsman got going, with the pitch as it was, you had a chance but they didn’t seem to see it that way.

“I tried nine different bowlers in the hope of picking up some wickets but it just wasn’t to be.

“Our pitch is probably one of the best in the division and we know need to find a way of winning games at home.

“In our first two home games, Ram and Wisborough have been content with draws but now we need to find a way to beat teams.

“If we want to be near the top our home form is going to be key and it’s vital we find a way of winning games on our own patch, which we need to start doing.”

Things did not start well for the home side with Askew falling fourth ball for two to leave his side 2-1.

Paul went in to join Lee and put Littlehampton firmly in control with a second-wicket stand of 220.

Lee eventually fell eight short of his century, while Paul went on to make 136 before being run out.

Late runs from Ally James (28 not out) ensured Littlehampton reached 275 for three before calling time on their innings.

Askew’s side knew their work would be cut out with the ball but when James Self went for nought in the first over they had hope.

Martin Hopkins (36) and Napper shared an important stand of 98 to get Wisborough back on track.

Napper’s vital knock of 104 and Carter’s 48, both unbeaten, ensured they held on for a losing draw, ending the day on 217 for three.

Littlehampton head to Eastergate in the league on Saturday.

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