Shanks hits ton in exciting draw

After losing the toss and being given first knock in this Division One fixture, second-placed Iden amassed 233 thanks largely to 110 from captain Phil Shanks.

Chiddingly ended their reply on 205-9 with Chris Curd taking 6-57. Paul Barnett and David White removed both openers with only two on the board before a third-wicket partnership of 138 stalled Iden’s progress.

Elsewhere on a rain-affected day, Rye remain second in Division Two after their game at home to Pevensey was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

But Battle are now just two points them following a draw at home to Herstmonceux. Joe Wood scored an unbeaten 104 as Battle totalled 199-7 batting first. Ceux reached 136-8 in reply with three wickets for Laurence Flint.

Robertsbridge lost by 71 runs at home to Buxted Park in the same division. Rob Geaney took two wickets as Park made 229-5 batting first and Guy Ballard top-scored with 26 in Robertsbridge’s reply of 158.

In Division Four, Little Common Ramblers won by three wickets at home to Heathfield Park seconds and Pett lost by seven wickets away to East Dean & Friston. Full reports will appear in Friday’s Observers.