Whilst the external match between the Willows and North Canterbury Secondary Schools’ XI proved to be enjoyable for all concerned, surely, on another level, NCSS were eagerly anticipating the opportunity to bowl to their mentor, Peter Williams. However, as the scorecard shows, Peter batted with distinction showing his younger charges that they still have much to learn.

Willows won the toss and NCSS batted first on an excellently prepared pitch. Starting slowly the North Canterbury batsmen were tied down by some excellent bowling from Mark Hastings (2/16) and Bob Masefield (1/15). The wickets were spread amongst the bowlers with John Mitchell bowling well to pick up 2/16. A third wicket stand of 63 between P.Maw (45) and B.Robinson (40) formed the backbone of the NCSS innings, and was only undone after some good work behind the stumps by Richard Leary who played a hand in the first four wickets to fall. Unfortunately for NCSS, they lost wickets at regular intervals, but when it appeared as though the Willows would not be set much of a target Paul McEwan encouraged some straight hitting. The increased confidence shown by the lower order resurrected the innings with N. Breitmeyer (23) showing the benefits of playing with confidence. The innings came to a close on 186 with an outstanding outfield catch by Corey James who, in the process, injured his hand, necessitating a reshuffle in the Willows batting order.

Set 187 to win a Willows victory appeared well on the cards, but the early departure of John Mitchell was a setback. However, the elegant stroke making which we have all come to admire in Paul McEwan’s batting was again evident with a well crafted 44. Together with Neville Perkins (57), whose batting was admired by all in attendance, the two steered theWillows close to victory. The fall of three quick wickets after tea had the lower order somewhat anxious, but a well compiled innings by Peter Williams (24) and a hard hitting 30 from Jarrod Ward the Willows were able to close in on the target with overs to spare.