Murray Parker brought a side of promising young cricketers to the Willows for this annual, early season fixture. Following a brief discussion between the captains, it was decided by mutual decision that the home side would bat first.

The Willows made a solid start on a slowish track and outfield, losing their first wicket at 45 in the 13th over. Despite a fine third wicket stand of 80 between Derek Burrell (39) and his son Wade (78), the Willows struggled in the remaining overs to finish at 187 for 6.

Tight bowling from Hinton and Liddy kept the batsmen in check through the early avers, while Eddington produced a miserly spell of 1/25 from ten overs towards the end. Sharp ground fielding saved numerous runs.

In comparison, the Willows bowlers were lively but wayward. An excess of wides helped South Canterbury race to 78/1 after 15 overs. Defending a low total became difficult after that.

Preston (53) batted solidly to anchor the innings and was supported by several smaller contributions-the next highest score was extras! However, it was enough for South Canterbury to pass the target with three overs to spare.

Sparks and Cameron returned excellent figures from nine overs apiece, but consistency was lacking among the others.

For most present it was an inauspicious but enjoyable start to the Willows’ seventh season, with a good deal of enthusiasm shown by all.