On another fine day The Willows played Timaru Boys’ High School, customarily winning the toss and electing to bat first. After the loss of an early wicket, The Willows consolidated with a fine 107 run partnership between Maulik Patel (73) and Tom Rennie (43) with both players never looking in real trouble against the Timaru attack. Both played strongly down the ground impressing Mr Dormer with their ability to play in the “V”. Further sound contributions to The Willows scorecard were made by ex-Timaru local Les Humphris with 68 and Tim Harrison with a well compiled 63 not out.

The resulting target of 324 was always going to be a difficult challenge for the visitors. In response Timaru Boys’ High School never really managed to get underway, losing their star performer, Michael Hogan, in the second ball of their innings. Partnerships were unable to be formed and in the end Timaru were bowled out for 103 in the 24th over.

The spoils were shared evenly by The Willows bowlers with both Les Humphris and Jeremy Duncan taking 3 wickets each.

In the end, The Willows team was a young side packed with real talent that comfortably had the measure of the Timaru Boys’ High School XI, although the visitors certainly impressed with their dedication and skills in the field despite the game situation and the heat of the day.