The idea of bringing a team of Secondary School players together from various parts of the South Island to play under the astute captaincy of Paul McEwan seemed a stroke of brilliance.

Taking advantage of the mist that enveloped over the ground, the Willows captain declared he had won the toss and his side would bat. It seemed a well-laid plan of gathering numerous runs would come unstuck as opener Justin Boyle pulled a hamstring just walking out to the wicket! However, seniority prevailed over youth and the Willows managed a fine start of 91/3 after 24 overs.

After a minor collapse, Carl “I’m prepared to thump them anywhere” Anderson steadied the ship with a well struck 52 and with contributions from Paul McCarthy and Josh Coll the Willows reached a respectable 197 after 50 overs.

The Secondary Schools side certainly stuck well to their bowling and fielding – even if some skied balls couldn’t be seen in the mist! Honours were shared by four bowlers who took two wickets apiece.

The air cleared over lunch, and the youthful Schools batsmen showed little respect for the more senior Willows bowling attack.

Openers Cameron Stone and Daniel Gard took their team to 90 without loss, prompting the Willows captain to try to explain to his teammates the resulting punishment for a loss by ten wickets! This inspired speech – delivered in a Churchillian manner – instilled a new approach by the Willowers.

One wicket fell, a second, and yes, they all began to tumble to runouts, catches, the odd LBW and some even hit the stumps. The Schools team tried hard to stay in the game, but cunning overcame exuberance as the opposition were finally dismissed for 171.

For the Willows, Barry Townrow ended up with 4/14 and Jason Pawson’s toiling was well rewarded with 3/35.