Under a perfect sky on a beautifully prepared ground and pitch The Willows batted first and with a talented batting side were confident that they could post a competitive score. In no time they were reeling at 5 for 53 with the “young guns” all out for very little. Only Adam Hastilow showed any real application but an unfortunate mix up saw him run out (the second of the session) just on lunch for 27. Despite the best efforts of the tail, the excellent college bowling backed by smart fielding saw us dismissed for 112 in the 40th over. Gregg Knowles the best of the bowlers with the fine figures of 3 for 21 from 8 overs.

The College reply started well with the first over realising 11 runs. Two 40 run partnerships for the second and third wicket saw the College through to a comfortable 6 wicket victory in the 34th over. Josh Poole the best of the batting with a fine captain’s knock of 53 well supported by Gregg Knowles with a quick fire 22. In the field The Willows tried everything using all 10 bowlers but due to the College’s well planned chase, were never able to get into the game.

The Marlborough Boys’ College presented extremely well and for the third year in a row won the Arthur Cresswell Trophy. As a young side they promise to be even more difficult next year.

Everyone enjoyed the magnificent day. It was especially nice to have parents from Marlborough at the ground supporting their sons and enjoying The Willows hospitality. Mike was a grand match manager and warned the boys at the after match “you are only as good as your last performance”, as they were to play St Bede’s the next day in a Gillette semi final. True to his words they had a shocker and lost heavily