The Fingletoads XI organised by Ross Dykes in Auckland did not appear, but fortunately The Willows was able and privileged to host the King’s College 1st XI who were currently in the South Island. The day was also graced by the presence of Andrew Barron, a visiting umpire from Melbourne.

In winning the toss and inviting The Willows team to bat, King’s made their key mistake! A 38 run opening partnership represented a solid start, but wickets fell regularly and at one stage just after lunch, The Willows team were perched rather precariously at 131 for 6 with useful contributions from Gareth Brooks, Michael Hastings and C. Walker. At this stage the experienced (if not too agile) pair of John Reid (85 not out) and Martin Hadlee (46) took the score through to 229 and the Willows finally ended up with a competitive total of 259/7. C. Jowett bowled well for King’s.

This total looked decidedly mammoth when King’s slumped to 10 for 4 under a steady and penetrating opening attack by Jason Pawson and Lyn Sparks. King’s made a solid revival to reach 189 but never seriously threatened the Willows total. Sparks and Pawson were ably backed up with steady contributions from Carl Anderson and Adrian McFedries. Mark Lane exhibited very sound wicket keeping skills, while two run outs and Cran Bull’s slip catch exemplified the lack of fortune experienced by the King’s batsmen.

The day was highlighted by excellent parental support from King’s College and provided a splendid opportunity for the boys to play at a wonderful venue against a good quality mixture of ‘has beens’ and energetic youngsters. A great day and a privilege for all concerned.