The annual Willows Bradley Nuttall game was played in great spirit in 30 plus degrees, testing the fitness of some of the players.

Batting first, Dave Kelly got The Willows off to a great start with 54 before retiring, with assistance from newcomer Ben Bellamy 35, and a stylish 32 from Hugh Wright. Several other Willowers contributed dashing cameos finishing up at 224/7. For BNL, the two veteran business partners belied their advanced age with Jacob Wolt nabbing 3/40 and Andrew Nuttall conceding next to no runs. Several Willowers are still trying to work out what he was bowling! Jim Stringleman’s agile boundary fielding belied his advanced years and Paul Rutledge showed glimpses of wicketkeeping excellence.

In reply, BNL fell short with 200/9. Their innings centred on Brad Doody getting to 51 and Andrew Nuttall falling just short of his 50 with 49, almost all run! Willows debutant Tony Milne bowled well for his 3 for 43 with contributions from all bowlers. Special mention of Tony Gray’s clever flight and variations, very Dan Vettori-like!