Bruce lrvine, a man wise in the ways of the world, fled to Australia as soon as he saw Arthur’s line up. Another disaster lurked for the President.

The day started promisingly due to the absence of Mike. Without his interference the captains were able to agree that this would be played to Masters’ rules with a retirement score of 40.

Powered by an aggressive 43 from C Dokerik and a more sedate 36 from N Teulon, the opposition reached 162. The competitive Reverend, Mike Hawke, captured 4/30 in an inspired spell while Wal Scott, with the highest loop seen at The Willows, captured 3/28 with his off-spin.

The Willows batting line up approached their task with confidence, which was soon to be shattered. The oppositions total looked readily obtainable, until we were confronted by the opening attack of Alec Astle and Nick Teulon. At the end of 15 parsimonious and outstanding overs we had collapsed to 17/4. The main culprit was Alec who, in an outstanding spell, captured 2/17 off his 8 overs.

Phil Harris led a fight back, ably supported by Gordon Fulton and then Peter Devlin. Phil was forced to retire on 40 and we will draw a veil over the Iast three batsmen who selflessly threw away their wickets so Phil could return to face the final couple of overs along with Peter Devlin. However, their efforts fell short by 17 runs. Phil finished 45 not out and Peter 39 not out.

The sausage sizzle and port were a fitting conclusion to an entertaining day’s cricket. Having seen Arthur Pitcher’s steely determination in his march towards victory, I now understand why you could never beat the odds at the casino.