A more fitting end to the Willows season could not have been scripted better by Hollywood producers. As the sun literally set at the beginning of the last over, the Willows required seven runs to achieve a winning total of 255.

Phil Harris hit four off the first ball and was retired with 102. Tony Doody missed the next, then struck a boundary to give the Willows an exciting four wicket victory.

Earlier Phil d'Auvergne had won the toss and elected to bat on what proved to be an excellent pitch with a lightning fast outfield in very hot conditions. The Woodbank Wanderers posted a challenging total of 254, based around a fine century by d'Auvergne and a polished 71 not out from Jon Cunliffe. Phil and Jon showed what patience and good shot selection can achieve. A feature of our fielding effort was the ‘keeping of Ben Cameron.

Lindsay Thorn (55) gave the Willows the foundation needed to chase 255. He joined Phil Harris in a partnership of 62 achieved at a good clip, ensuring we were always up with the required run rate. William Fairbairn was next in and he and Phil continued the momentum with a partnership of 99.

Wade Cornelius was promoted and added important impetus to the innings. Phil Harris’s innings was of high quality as he ensured the score kept moving with quick singles in between putting away loose deliveries. For the younger players involved, Phil demonstrated how to pace an innings to achieve victory.

Over 500 runs were scored for the loss of only eight wickets, with a successful run chase in the last over. A great day’s cricket to finish the season – where were the cameras?