At 10.30am the energetic Wellingtonians were already engaged in an intense fielding exercise as the Willows XI started to arrive. It was a norwest morning, approaching 20 degrees as the coin toss was won. A “green top” pitch and moderate humidity were reason enough for The Willows to bowl first. The Wellington top order grafted commendably on what was a slow early season pitch. However with runs hard to come by, the wickets fell steadily. Willows’ opening bowler Alex Rowe impressed with line and length. First change bowler Daniel Wightman delivered 10 overs on the trot, deploying his left arm orthodox to great effect. Paul McEwan bowled with rhythm and efficiency, however Matt Rowe was probably the most effective of the bowlers picking up 3 wickets with his flighty off breaks. It was a tight bowling and fielding display and Wellington were dismissed for 175.

The Willows batting line up was strong. Opener Ben Ward compiled a compact and stylish 60. Most of the top order made decent contributions, but again Matt Rowe distinguished himself with an aggressive 44 not out. Despite some impressive pace, the Wellington bowlers struggled to defend such a modest target. The winning runs were struck with several overs to spare; The Willows having lost only 5 wickets and with the seasoned lower middle order not required. For the Wellington team, the day was also enhanced by the presence of local old boys such as ex-New Zealand internationals Brian Hastings and Trevor Barber, captains of the XI in 1957 and 1941 respectively.