The visiting Cavaliers of Chingford, undefeated at “The Willows” arrived to meet the home side determined to reverse the previous season’s last-over defeat.

Phil Harris, with ruthless power, retained only four members of last year’s side. President John Mitchell, Simon Cunliffe, Colin Hight and surprisingly, captain Brian Hastings. In addition, judge John Hansen had defected to the opposition. The consensus of opinion was that Hastings was in his final trial.

The Willows won the toss and batted first, with Mitchell and Cunliffe putting on an attractive 72 run opening partnership which belied their years. Derek Burrell, “The Don of the Willows", again had the ball zinging from his bat and featured in a bright third wicket partnership with Michael Hastings. Derek continued to score with powerful shots, all around the wicket, in reaching his second ton at “The Willows”. He has now scored 352 runs at “The Willows” for an average of 117.3. The experienced middle-order batsmen, C.L.Bull and B.F.Hastings, did not trouble the scorer, although Bull did manage to last two balls.

The Willows’ tally of 263 for nine was a good total against a useful attack of which the most successful was Justice Hansen who captured three wickets for 27 from seven overs, including an unplayable delivery to Hastings.

The Cavaliers made a disastrous start with both openers removed for only seven runs by the youthful opening attack of Kyle Earnshaw and Sam Davis. Dave Sharp, a much more elegant batsman than his commentating brother, and Bruce Irvine restored some respectability to the Cavaliers side with a 65 run third wicket partnership. Despite a useful innings of 33 by John Faulks they were always behind the run chase and succumbed for 156.

The wickets were shared and Cran Bull completed an auspicious day by pulling a muscle in his fifth over and gracefully retired to the Pavilion. It is recommended that he obtain full medical clearance in writing submitted to the President before playing at “The Willows” again.

Both teams were appreciative to have such world class umpires as F.J.Cameron and M.E.Dormer officiating and it was pleasing to see b9th keeping hands in pockets.

All in all it was another good day’s cricket at “The Willows”. We thank the Cavaliers for coming such a distance to do battle and we trust Grant Faulkes and his team enjoyed the day. We look forward to seeing them again next season.