The match was played in beautifully fine conditions and the wicket was slightly damp due to overnight rain. The toss was made and the Willows was asked to bat first. The opening pair of Steven Flanagan and Ryan Burson had to face a lively opening attack, which had the odd ball lifting disconcertingly from one end, but both looked comfortable until the third over when Ryan nicked a good delivery to the ‘keeper and our score became 8 for one.
This brought Phil Harris to the wicket and was the turning point of our innings. A wonderful partnership with Steven Flanagan added 122, with young Steven playing a very mature innings for 66. He played shots all round the wicket and looked set to progress to three figures but played one loose shot to lose his wicket.
Tom Lancaster joined Phil and this pair plundered the Woodbank attack to all parts of the ground. Tom contributed a rapid 54 in a partnership of 96, and Phil completed a magnificent century, punctuated by flowing drives through the covers and several punishing pull shots through midwicket. This was the first time Phil had an opportunity to bat in the top order during the season and he didn’t waste his chance. Our innings ended at 258 for 4 after our allotted 50 overs.
In reply, Woodbank were immediately placed under extreme pressure by our opening attack of Chris Bisman and Stu Stevens, who between them bowled five maidens in the first six overs. The Wanderers never really recovered from this slow start, though after being 33 for 2, Richard Murray (60) and Peter Jerram (45) briefly brought some hope back into the game for their team.
The Willows attack consisted of nine bowlers who all contributed to the 45 run victory and the fielding was lively and enthusiastic. Phil Harris displayed his all-round ability with two quick wickets for five runs.
A most enjoyable day was had by all, with an invitation for a return fixture next season gladly accepted by the Woodbank Wanderers. They were very complimentary of the ground, the facilities and the ethos of The Willows.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my personal thanks to Mike and Winsome for their generosity as hosts, and those at the The Willows CC responsible for providing this cricketing concept. It has been a pleasure to captain and play for The Willows this season and I’m sure the younger, promising players involved can not only learn to improve their games, but hopefully also learn some of the traditions and etiquette of the game that seem to be disappearing.