Blue skies and pleasant temperatures accompanied our opening day of the 2026 campaign. The SCMG was buzzing with anticipation as T20 knock out action rolled into town in the shape of Haywards Heath and Brighton. Nomads are steeped in T20 success so hopes were high of getting 2026 off to a flyer. Unfortunately the day ended under a cloud from over head and across the membership as both teams had to bow from the competition.  Heath ones, except for a couple of dropped catches played Premier league cricket while Brighton edged a DL threatened thriller.

Two’s V Heath Sussex T20 Cup  North

Having won the toss Nomads were sent into bat. Skipper Gatting smashed a six as we got off to a great start. 54 for 2 owned much to sensible batting from Adam I (36) at three who anchored the inns nicely.  Matthew Miller, our Two’s overseas made an instant impact launching a straight six with his first ball.  He kept Nomads ticking nicely with a SR of 214 making a quick 30 runs.  Hector 18 n.o and Faith 14 n.o. couldn’t quite finish the inns with that zing zang pow needed.  On another day Heath would have rued two simple dropped catches mid inns.  Instead 137 for 4 felt a little shy.

Heath legend Jonny Phelps was in no mood to give us an easy afternoon. He bludgeoned a half century off just 20 balls to take the game away and earn man of the match. However there was time for Miller to produce the Champaign moment.  He bowled the ball of the day which bounced and caught the edge of Khan’s bat for Kash to snaffle a brilliant catch behind.  Matt if you are reading more of that please.   Gatts said later ‘they are a good side and we were 30 runs short. They then went hard with the bat. We had a couple of chances which we didn’t take’  As to the league ‘I think it’s going to be a tough challenge this season as teams have strengthen but we are looking forward to it!’

Three’s v Brighton Twos  Sussex T20 Trophy  South

Faisal said his team were really looking forward to opening up with a T20 encounter here at home.  And for 30 mins the game was in the balance.  A huge rainstorm swept in from the west to halt any kind of finish.  Brighton won it on DL.  A 59 n.o. from J Elliott and a 36 from Bensons keeper Adams saw them rest on 206 for.  Our twos will need to sharpen up with their extra’s column.  35 wides wont get it done.

Abdul Hameed (47)  and M Khan (43) had the ground expectant as they forged a wonderful partnership of 86. There was excited tension amongst the crowd as Nomads were well up with the DL score at half way.  The spell was broken as two quick wickets fell and expected rain rolled in from the downs.  Skipper Khan hit a defiant six to cow just before all players ran for cover.  Heavy rain then fell as time was called.

Whilst not the start we were looking for today all our teams can now dust down and prepare for our opening league weekend on Saturday 8th May. Ones and Three at home while Twos go to Bolney and Mel goes to Felbridge.

Great to catch up with you all.

Cobo 2/5/2026