lt was great to play the Marlborough Boys’ 1 st XI early in the season as it was an opportunity for them to play an experienced Willows team and, hopefully, set them up for a good season. The Willows batted first and at 56 for the first wicket were on track for a big score. However, Marlborough Boys’ fought hard to come back into the game. This had come about by some excellent bowling from Bishell. They were not however counting on an excellent batting performance from Andrew Ellis (83 not out) who came to the wicket after the fall of 4 wickets. Andrew showed what patience and time at the wicket can do. He and Wade Cornelius added 65 for the last wicket with Wade eventually being run out for 1 4. The total of 236 flattered the Willows a little, particularly as Marlborough Boys’ stuck to it for the full 50 overs. Bishell and Nick d'Auvergne, with his off spin, were the pick of the bowlers with Nick claiming the prize wicket of his father PhiI.

Marlborough Boys’ started the run chase well losing their first wicket at 38 but at no stage could they dominate the bowling. Middlemiss, Wilson, Wheeler, d'Auvergne and Munro all got into double figures but were unable to go on to a big score. The Willows bowlers shared the wickets to have Marlborough Boys all out for 125.

After the game it was a good opportunity to speak with the boys and hopefully they learned something from their day at the Willows.