On a 30°C day The Willows fielded a side containing a mix of youth and experience against a young Waitaki Boys’ High School 1st XI who had only one Year 13 player and the majority Year 11. Waitaki won the Spirit of Cricket award at the national Under-15 tournament in 2024, and this has carried through into their 1st XI.

Waitaki batted first on a true pitch with a green outfield. Jacob Wilson, a promising fast bowler from CBHS, struck early removing Waitaki Assistant Rector and current North Otago Coach Jordan Horrell to a good catch at fine leg by Brian Griffiths. Waitaki opener Archie Haywood provided a solid foundation for Angus Isbister and captain Billy Wilson to combine for a solid partnership. However, tight bowling from The Willows kept the pressure on as they restricted Waitaki to 184 for 9. Wilson took two wickets and Fynn Dalton (Year 12 CBHS) and Fraser Hill three each.

Willows openers Jordan Sim and Fraser Hill laid a solid foundation that was capitalised on by Rhys Petrie, Riley Jones (Year 11 CBHS) and Adam Hastilow. Adam retired when he reached his 50 and the target was reached with four down. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day. It was great to have Waitaki Rector Darryl Patterson with us for the day.