Michael Satterthwaite (a former Waitakian), substituting for myself for lateness due to a party in lnvercargill the night before, won the toss and elected to bat. Michael and fellow opener, Trevor Thornton (a previous pupil of St. Kevin’s), proceeded to blast the opposition bowling to all corners of the ground, scoring 116 before both were removed in quick succession. The Combined XI fought their way back with a combination of improved bowling and zealous fielding.

Messrs McCarthy and McGuire “steadied the ship”, before increasing the tempo which ensured a more than competitive total of 249/7.

In the afternoon session, the Combined XI began the run chase with the evergreen Barry Townrow and the versatile Richard McGuire ensuring the opening batsmen were kept in check and that a regular taking of wickets would ensure The Willows score was never threatened.

McGuire, David Fox and Keith Yardley collected two wickets each and they were well supported by James Leggatt who set a wonderful example with his fielding.

For the Combined XI Messrs Shields and Smith batted attractively, the last wicket falling with a score of 142.

Another wonderful day. After the barbecue, Match Manager Peter Nancarrow expressed appreciation to the Combined XI, their manager Kevin Ward and to the parents who travelled from Oamaru for the fixture.