The annual Waitaki Boys’ High School Willows match was a cracker that went to the wire. The Waitaki Team was a composite North Otago side with the combination of Waitaki Boys’ High School and St Kevin’s College 1st XI players.

The young men from North Otago batted competently throughout their 50 overs and posted a commanding score. Their innings was built around an unbeaten 108 from the opener Simpson, who batted with maturity well beyond his years. Billcliff, who hit a quickfire 75, was the other star. The Willows bowling and fielding effort was acceptable with the evergreen Richard McGuire claiming 3 for 22.

The Willows reply featured three cameo innings from Gibson, McGuire and Hastings, but just when it seemed a winning partnership was formed it was then broken by the North Otago bowlers.

The combined School side maintained their keen enthusiasm throughout their period in the field and in particular applied the pressure when 6 were required off the last 4 balls with yours truly being caught on the ‘long on’ boundary to give the boys the game by 5 runs. Both teams deserve credit for the manner and spirit in which the game was played.

The splendid day was made not only by the standard of cricket but by the presence of so many parents and supporters who made the trip from Oamaru, one of whom, Rolie Everleigh, a wonderful coach and role model for cricketers at Waitaki for nearly 30 years. It was a fitting tribute that Rolie was made a member of the Willows.

We now look forward to a return fixture next year.