In this rescheduled fixture a largely altered Willows XI took the field. It was a thrill to have in the ranks Bill Fenton, a stalwart of the Cornwall Club, Auckland – the first top cricketer from that part of the country to don our colours.

The Boys’ High top order acquitted themselves well in the morning session against a more than uselful Willows attack. Led by a patient and correct innings of 30 by Kyle Earnshaw, several partnerships threatened. However in his second spell at the crease the ex-Canterbury seam bowler Stephen Bateman ripped through the middle order and the innings faltered. Bill Fenton also chimed in with his dribbly off-cutters to have Boys’ High all out for 140 in the 46th over.

A strong opening stand of 77 runs by the forceful Hamish Anderson and the Burnside High School youngster, Mark Coster, put the result beyond doubt. Four wickets went down as the win was accomplished.

As well as the mixing of “old timers” and the new kids of cricket this was a significant game for members of the Boys’ High side. Seventh former Sam Davis, captaining the side on one of his final occasions before leaving to play cricket in England, had two third formers to blood and encourage in this match. I’m sure young Hantz and Webb will remember playing alongside a champion School bowler at “The Willows” for many a day.