The value of using an ECB grant to purchase their flat sheet cover a few years ago, was evident on Saturday, as Kemsing Cricket Club were one of only a handful of clubs around Sevenoaks who completed their game.
There were numerous rain breaks during the game, which was reduced to 32 overs a side before the start to allow for the weather.
Kemsing skipper, Grahame Wood, won the toss and decided to field first, which was against his natural inclination, but was a better option because of the terrible forecast.
Groombridge started well, with the openers putting on 69 for the first wicket. But a smart catch by stand-in keeper, James Walkling, off the bowling of Damien Saville got Kemsing into the game in the 17th over. Although the batting became more frenetic, Kemsing managed to keep the score down to a very attainable 161-5. Groombridge skipper, Danny Slade, top scored with a very useful 68 not out, while Damien Saville and Ian Wise both took 2 wickets.
When the Kemsing reply started, skipper Wood soon departed, leaving son, Jake, to do the bulk of the work with Walkling. Remarkably, in making his first 50 of the league season, Jake had a faster scoring rate than his dad and Walkling, which is no mean feat!
After Walkling (53) was out having an almighty, and unnecessary, heave at the ball, Saville was in no mood to mess about and biffed 34 from 22 balls to finish the game with more than 4 overs to spare.
Kemsing look pretty good, as they remain at the top of Division three, and are away to last year’s co-promoted side, Chiddingstone, next week.
