CRICKET: Rebbetts selected for Sussex Academy tour to UAE

He smashed 741 runs, at an average of 82.3, which is a new Invitation League club record, and he also took 17 wickets, all in the first six games, after which he was unable to bowl owing to a side strain injury.

On being selected, Rebbetts, 16, who has to raise 1,190 for the 10-day trip to Abu Dhabi (December 13-23], said: "It's going to be great. I really wanted to go as I also had quite a good season for Sussex, in the Under-16s and Academy.

"It's a good chance to prove what I can do, and will, hopefully, be a step forward to getting into the Academy."

If Rebbetts is selected in the Academy, he will receive 400 from Sussex towards the cost of the tour, but he will still have to pay the rest, and is looking for sponsorship.

He is hoping local businesses and individuals will sponsor him, while Sussex are helping out by sending him tickets for matches next year, little autographed bats and cricket balls for him to auction at East Preston's presentation evening.

Rebbetts is likely to join a Sussex League side next year, and said: "I'm not sure 100 per cent where I will play yet. I'll have to speak to my Sussex coaches but I've probably achieved all I can at East Preston.

"I've been there since aged 10 or 11, and everyone has been really good to me. Keith Chamberlain, in the juniors, and Andy Reeves, with the first team, have really helped me along."

Sussex have also put Rebbetts forward for the London and East region England Under-17 training camp, where he will be joined by around 30 other players from the 11 counties in the region. His first session is later this month.

Anyone interested in sponsoring Darryl Rebbetts, can call him on 01903 786333.

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