In a thrilling Metro Bank One Cup match, Glamorgan managed to secure a narrow victory over Sussex Sharks by just one wicket, despite the commendable efforts of young spinners Lenham and Foreman.
Glamorgan’s flawless record in this year’s tournament remained intact after an astonishing performance at the Gnoll in Neath. Sussex had set a target of 200 all out, largely thanks to a remarkable partnership between Lenham and Foreman. The young duo also excelled with the ball, nearly clinching a victory for Sussex.
Although Glamorgan’s chase started strongly, a collapse in the top order brought Sussex back into contention. Eddie Byrom top-scored with 51, supported by Billy Root’s 48. However, it was Andy Gorvin and Jamie McIlroy’s last-wicket partnership that ultimately secured the win for Glamorgan.
With four wins out of four, Glamorgan now leads Group B, while Sussex continues to search for their first win of the tournament, suffering a one-wicket defeat for the second time this season.
Glamorgan’s decision to bowl first, after winning the toss, proved beneficial as their seamers dominated Sussex from the outset. Timm van der Gugten and McIlroy troubled the opposition’s batsmen, with van der Gugten making an early breakthrough by dismissing Tom Clark.
A partnership between Haines and Rogers provided some stability for Sussex, but a collapse ensued after Haines’s dismissal. Douthwaite and van der Gugten ran through the Sussex lineup, with Douthwaite claiming four crucial wickets.
Despite Lenham and Foreman’s valiant efforts with the ball, Root’s resilient batting was pivotal for Glamorgan. The young spinners kept the pressure on throughout Glamorgan’s innings, but ultimately could not prevent the hosts from securing a thrilling victory.
The match showcased the talent and determination of both teams, with Glamorgan emerging as the victors by the slimmest of margins, maintaining their perfect record in the competition. Sussex, on the other hand, will look to bounce back from this narrow defeat as they continue their campaign in the Metro Bank One Cup.