Having arrived at the ground with heavy overcast skies above, the talk of the morning was whether or not the Sacred Heart College XI from Auckland, would make it onto the delightful ground for their maiden encounter with The Willows!

Starting on time, the opening spell from the College bowlers was accurate and well supported by some athletic fielding in testing conditions. The Willows top order struggled to get any momentum early and were looking down the barrel at 15/4.

Through to lunch at 67/5 from 20 overs, and after a lengthened weather break and fresh snow on the Alps, the general consensus was that the match would be abandoned. “Trust me, it will clear” were the wise words from local experience, so a shortened match of 30 overs a side followed.

When the skies finally cleared and play resumed, the tail of The Willows indeed ‘wagged’, after another good innings from Tim Hampton-Matehe, to post a low but competitive total of 124.

Given the task of defending 4 runs an over, The Willows started with accuracy and quick wickets, thanks to tight bowling from George Earl and Jacob Wolt.

At 41/8 The Willows players thought the match was all but won until Sacred Heart batsmen J Goosenan and C Larsen staged a comeback, taking their singles and turning the strike.

New father and player of the day James Hantz bowled well to claim three victims whilst tight bowling and two runouts from myself helped to steer The Willows home for a good victory and an enjoyable finish for all. Well done to Sacred Heart College for their enthusiasm and a close game.