It was a beautiful day to host the visitors from Invercargill and wonderful to see so many parents travel with their sons and other family members to enjoy this cricketing occasion. It was also great to see two father and son combinations with the Ian and Jed Mockford and John and Jackson Garry.

The Willows batted first and despite some good opening bowling, John Garry and Paul Russell played well for an opening partnership of 53. This was followed by an 80 run partnership between Aarush Bhagwat and Paul in 11 overs. Later Jed Mockford attacked the bowlers and was left not out after a quick-fire 78. The last five overs produced 50 runs with some good striking from Micah Campbell. Gregor Rutledge and Aaron Hart both grabbed a brace with the ball. The Willows ended on a very competitive 283 for six.

In reply, the Southland batsmen struggled against some very good opening bowling from Micah Campbell. Aaron Hart, however, batted very well for 55 as did Shaun Clapperton. While the match was a little bit lop-sided, it was nice for The Willows to take a win versus SBHS as we have been well beaten in earlier years.