The London New Zealand fixture is eagerly anticipated by both sides. We were delighted to arrive to a warm summer’s day and The Willows ground beautifully prepared for the contest ahead.

LNZCC elected to bat first and their team included plenty of firepower in the batting department with the likes of McConnell and Scott and bowling strength with former Black Cap, Aaron “Windy” Gale.

The Willows captain was provided with a strong side by the selectors; in particular, a youngish bloke with a lilt to his voice who turned out to be the opening bowler for the Scottish international team. Gordon Goudie was here in New Zealand in preparation for the World Cup qualifying tournament. The opening spell from Goudie was all class and with a good deal of pace. However McConnell (76) and Scott (83) for LNZCC saw off the Scottish quick with superb technique and then unleashed some fine shots to build an impressive innings.

The Willows secret weapon turned out to be David Kelly who came on when Kelvin Scott was well and truly set and starting to hit the ball over the boundary. Kelly bowled with great control and guile removing Scott and turned the innings with a superb spell of 4 for 10. (A word of advice here to other Willows captains, throw Dave the ball earlier in the innings). Other contributors at the bowling crease were Courtney with 2 for 33 and Goudie with 1 for 22. The London side ended with 207 for 8 with two retired hurt. Hamstrings not bouncers.

The Willows run chase started solidly with Alex Reese making a stylish 31 and David Kelly 22. The class innings for The Willows came from Brad Doody with 53 powerfully struck runs. Despite further contributions from Murray with 33 and Goudie with 22, tight bowling from Stephen Lester (3 for 33) saw The Willows fall just short finishing 200 for 8. Mention should also be made of the sub fielders provided from Willows supporters, McGuire and Blake with young George Blake taking a stunning outfield catch for LNZCC.

[2image]

[3image]