Christchurch awoke to a morning downpour but players were welcomed by warm sunshine at the newly named Jaguar Oval for the annual fixture against St Andrew’s College.

The Willows won the toss and were sent in. A positive opening stand of 91 between Ben Ward and Mark Weeds established a good platform for The Willows, with Ben Ward in particular full of intent and stroke play. His fine innings continued after lunch before retiring on a classy, run-a-ball 100. The rest of The Willows top order contributed to useful partnerships with Ben and a good total of 263/6 was achieved after 50 overs. The STAC bowlers pulled it back well during the middle of the innings, backed by some excellent fielding and catching. Ollie Bragg’s 2/35 off 10 overs was a highlight.

The STAC run chase began aggressively and the scoreboard read 42/1 after just six overs before heavy thunderstorms arrived just before tea. Robbie Selbie played some delightful strokes through the off-side. When play resumed an hour later, The Willows nabbed a couple of quick wickets to slow down proceedings. An afternoon of spin bowling ensued from Messrs Nuttall, Lonsdale and Reese, backed up by good over rates from Paul McEwan and Mike Johnston.