The Willows selected a youthful and talented side for the annual clash against the combined Waitaki/St Kevin’s team from Oamaru.

It was only the inclusion of Trevor Thornton (St Kevin’s old boy) and James Leggat that lifted the average age of The Willows side to 27.

Batting first, The Willows innings was highlighted by three very competent innings, firstly by Hamish Robertson and James Tapper. Not wanting to detract from the efforts of Robertson and Tapper, the highlight was a magnificent 80 from the veteran James Leggat. Right from the outset of his innings he timed the ball beautifully and gave the Combined XI a lesson in placement and intent.

In reply the Combined XI never gained any momentum and whilst The Willows bowlers bowled with good control, the Oamaru team would have been disappointed with their lack of ability to rotate the strike. Edward Nuttall looked a bowler with huge promise and young Alex Reese also bowled 10 overs of leg spin with a considerable amount of skill.

In reply to The Willows 240/7 the Combined XI were dismissed for a very disappointing 97. Mention should be made of the ’keeping of Aaron Johnstone who supported the bowlers well with a very polished display behind the stumps.