A little knowledge is a good thing, too much knowledge can be even worse. Such was the dilemma that faced The Willows’ captain on winning the toss for this game. The normal course of events is to bat first, enjoy lunch, then restrict the opposition. “No, bowl”, said Mr Nuttall. “Rain and hail are forecast for later in the day. (It actually turned out very hot). “Bowl first”, said match manager Peter Nancarrow, “as the batting has been terrible in the last five games”. (It continued to be so in this match). “Don’t make it five losses from six games”, said a strangely dressed looking Hobbit like creature who seemed to belong to the ground and answered to the name of Michael.

The Willows bowled first, and bowled and fielded well, restricting a talented Combined team to 97, a very gettable total.

The Willows batted badly (again) against an impressive bowling attack, and could only muster a dismal 79. The end result another Willows’ captain has been added to the burning pile in the back paddock for taking notice of his elders.