THE Lurgashall pair of Ollie Pearce and Nathan Kemp played prominent roles as the President’s XI beat champions Blackheath in the Winners v Rest fixture on Sunday.

Kemp took 4-26 in eight overs and Pearce, coming in at number 7, hit a fast 62, reaching 50 off 43 balls, to set up a two-wicket victory for the side representing Keith Ellis, the I’Anson president.

Wicketkeeper Alex Wadey gave Lurgashall three players in the side – a mark of the better days being enjoyed by the Sussex club which has struggled in recent years.

Will Melhuish (54) and Rob Parrott (45) went off like a train for Blackheath and the host side seemed well on course for a 200-plus total in their 40 overs.

But once skipper Nathan Phillimore and Kemp had removed the openers, the innings went into decline against Kemp and the returning Pearce (2-35). Fred Martin-Dye made 26, but the reigning I’Anson champions were restricted to 179-8.

The representative side started briskly, but the top six – with the exception of Peper Harow’s Glenn Taylor (30) – got out just when they looked set.

A special innings was required and Pearce provided it with his hard-hitting 62. Iain Jackson (Grayswood) gave good support and although Dan Harrison did dismiss Pearce, it was too late and Jackson (22 not out) and Kemp saw the President’s men home by two wickets with more than five overs to spare.

I’Anson at The Oval

THE I’Anson compete in the Surrey Interleague Tournament at The Kia Oval this Monday (Sept 12).

The I’Anson has an excellent record in this end-of-season event and hopes for good support. It gives an opportunity for free entry to The Oval and a chance to look around the home of Surrey CCC. Public transport is best as parking is limited and expensive.