It was a cold day at The Willows, but the welcome was warm for the Christchurch Boys’ High team and visiting Willowers. Despite the very wet late winter weather, the ground was in immaculate condition – the pitch was firm and flat, and the outfield at its very best. Our congratulations to all concerned.

The Willows ‘won the toss’ yet again, and elected to bat first, yet again! The top order struggled against the opening bowling of William Williams and Lachie Davidson and it was good to note the confidence that Boys’ High captain, James Richards, had in using one of his two, fine, left arm spinners. After 13 overs The Willows were 33/2, and only Robert Dunne and Harry Wright were able to put some pressure on the Boys’ High bowlers. The Willows were finally dismissed in the 49th over for 140 runs.

CBHS, in reply, started positively, even though Richard McGuire captured the wicket of James Richards in the 4th over. The attack was taken up by Ben Sidey, who scored 31 runs at a run a ball, which, in the context of the game, was very good. The Willows faced the real prospect of losing to Boys’ High for only the second time in the history of the Club and it was unfortunate for Boys’ High the rain “settled in” shortly after tea and the match was left with Boys’ High very well placed at 73/3 from only 17 overs.