Last year The Willows failed to fire and lost to Timaru Boys’ High School (TBHS), a fact not lost on the selectors. Consequently it was a young and impressive team that took the field. On another beautiful day at Loburn, The Willows won the toss and predictably elected to bat first on a fine batting pitch.

The decision proved decisive as the home team rattled up a formidable target of 371 for 7. Liam Bartholomeusz and Sam Langrope scored well compiled centuries, the first time two batsmen in one innings have done so in the history of the Club.

The exhibition of stroke play, timing and shear strength was a marvel for all of the spectators and allowed the balance of The Willows team to enjoy the show from the cooler temperatures of the pavilion.

After wickets fell the momentum continued with a fine innings of 48 from Andrew FullertonSmith.

With 371 runs to chase, TBHS had their work cut out for them. Things were not made easy by a concentrated spell of fast bowling from Byron Newton as he chipped 2 wickets off the top of the order. Then it was the turn of the spinners, Bill Walsh (1-21), Tim Johnston (2-30) and Maulik Patel (3-44) who tied the TBHS batsmen down before picking up their wickets.

TBHS battled through to 166 for 9 in their 50 overs falling well short of the target. They impressed as tenacious by batting their full allotment of overs. They had also stuck at their task well earlier in the day while they were in the field despite the heat and trying conditions.