Askew targeting another title tilt with Littlehampton

Littlehampton Cricket Club captain James Askew wants to see his side secure a return to the Sussex Cricket League this year.
Littlehampton skipper James AskewLittlehampton skipper James Askew
Littlehampton skipper James Askew

They missed out on that target by just four points last season as a no-result in their final game of the campaign ensured another year in West Sussex Invitation League Division 1.

Littlehampton travelled to West Chiltington & Thakeham knowing a win would see them clinch a return to the Sussex League but a washout meant it was their opponents who achieved promotion.

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Askew admits that was tough to take but he believes his side can use that as an incentive this season.

He said: “It was really disappointing but we’ve got over that now.

“The aim once again is promotion and I’m hopeful we can achieve that.

“We are under no illusions, it’s not going to be easy because this is a tough league and it’s going to be even more tricky this season.”

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Littlehampton have added all-rounder Louis Paul from Aldwick and seamer Matt Clark as they look to claim the title.

Askew has lost two from last season, though, with Jordan Farrell and Mike Askew likely to miss most of the campaign.

However, the Littlehampton captain believes his squad have what it takes to finish top of the pile.

He added: “It’s great to bring in both Louis and Matt. I’m sure they will give us something extra from what we had last year.

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“My brother Mike has been playing in the Manchester League, so I’m not sure if he will be back and Jordan isn’t likely to feature much this season.”

It all gets under way in Division 1 with a home clash against Ram on Saturday.

Littlehampton failed to beat Ram last season as they lost away and were held to a draw at home.

Askew feels these are the type of games his side need to win if they are to clinch the title. He said: “It was frustrating not to beat them last season, either at home or away.

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“We missed out on the league title by four points and if we had beaten them in one of those matches then it could well have been a different story.

“We’ll be looking to get the win and kick-start what is hopefully going to be a successful season for us.”

Askew joined Littlehampton last season and had by far his most successful season. He struck 1,422 runs in 19 games at an average of 88.88, with a high score of 170 not out.

Askew is hopeful he can reproduce similar form but admits if that is not possible, his team-mates will be on hand to help out.

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He said: “Last season was my best from a personal viewpoint but disappointing from a team perspective.

“It was nice to get as many runs as I did and I’ll be looking to repeat that this season.

“If I’m not able to get as many runs, I know the team will be able to produce as we have a number of good players. It’s going to be a case of everyone chipping in and trying to achieve the goal we have set, which is promotion.”

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