The annual fixture between The Willows and Otago Boys’ High commenced under cloudy skies with an unsettled forecast. Fortunately the weather held throughout the day.

The Willows batted first on a great pitch, which provided assistance to the bowlers. The home team were able to make a brisk and solid start with Ben Orton and Michael Johns opening up in positive fashion, the pair rattled on an opening partnership of 72, with Johns falling for a well compiled 31. Orton continued on his way but saw two quick wickets fall at the other end. Richard Morgan in his first game for The Willows joined Orton to steady the ship against some demanding Otago Boys’ bowling ably lead by captain Cameron Rutherford who finished with figures 2 for 48. Morgan completed a fine 32 with the batting highlight being 102 retired by Orton in a Willows total of 253/9. The pick of the bowlers was Paranjpe with 3 for 30 off 10 overs.

The Willows’ opening bowlers made early inroads dismissing the top order cheaply with Matthew McEwan and Richard McGuire picking up early wickets. Jason Pawson continued the pressure with some demanding seam bowling, but the bowling of the day belonged to Chris Clark with 4/19 and Braydon Hill who bowled 10 overs on the trot to finish with 3/39. The Otago Boys’ innings never gained momentum with 3 batsmen getting starts but were unable to push on. The visitors being finally dismissed for 116 in 30 overs.

Our thanks to the umpires Les and Jim, Tony for scoring and the support crew for catering and great playing facilities.