Mid-Sussex cricket teams itching to get back in action

The league released the fixtures last week with matches due to the start on May 8, with the final weekend of the season scheduled for September 4.

The league’s committee are still working on contigency plans in case the season is delayed, but Lindfield CC skipper Simon Shivnarain can’t wait to get going.

His side could not ask for a tougher start, travelling to Horsham for their season opener in division two.

He said: “It is a tough start but really looking forward to the challenge. I am confident we will get a full season especially after seeing a BBC article regarding sports equipment presenting low risk, so no more ‘vectors’ chat.

“I cannot wait to get back out there. We would have normally started winter nets by now so it is tough not being able to get some early work in.”

And Shivnarain believes his side can pull off some shocks this year.

He said: “There are a lot of strong teams in the division this year but I am hoping we can spring a few surprises this season so watch this space.

“We now have a good mix of youth and experience and now that some of the younger lads no longer have school cricket commitments.

“I am hoping for better availability and a chance for more consistency in the team.”

He also wanted to praise the league for how they were handling plans for the season.

He said: “The league have done a great job in planning for different scenarios but I am sure the whole cricket community just want to get back out there and play.”

Burgess Hill begin their season hosting Bognor at St John’s Park, also in division two. Captain Joe Maskell said: “We’re excited. The league is so strong that all games are tough. We are pleased we start at home and hopefully have access to the new changing rooms.

“Targets for us are to improve year on year... winning games and having fun, see where that takes us.

“We are hopeful for a full season. If we are out of lockdown, hopefully at worst the rules will be the same as last year with no changing rooms, no tea, sanitising etc – but we just prepare for that first game.”

Maskell is excited about his squad. “We’ve got some new recruits which we are excited about and believe they will shine.

“Then we have Lewis Mamoany and Jack Smart, who have thrived for us and hoping they be stars for us. Also Dan Strange returning for us is massive, to have our prime opening bowler back is massive for the club.”

Haywards Heath CC skipper Callum Smith says everyone is ‘desperate’ for the season to start on time. Heath kick off their Premier Division season at home to Brighton and Hove before a short trip to Cuckfield for the second game.

Skipper Smith said: “I think like all, yes we are desperate to start on time – and fingers crossed that can happen. Pre-season is going to be a bit disjointed but we will all do what we can to be ready. It’s nice to have a local start for sure and a couple of home games which we all missed last season.”

And Smith and his side are under no illusion it will be tough making the step up to premier division cricket.

“Our aim for the season for sure will be to stay up, we know it will be a tough challenge but we have a great bunch of lads who are all very capable of performing in the premier league,” he said.

“I think we have a good all-round team so I wouldn’t want to single out any player.

“I think that was our strength in getting promoted that everyone in the team contributed.

“I literally cannot wait for the sun to be shining and to be on a cricket field.”

Cuckfield start their season with the toughest of trips, away at current Sussex Cricket League champions Roffey.

East Grinstead start their season away at Hastings before hosting Preston Nomads in the second week.