There was a strong Ex Marlborough Boys College Willows team that welcomed the young Red Devils to this year’s Willows clash. Not only that but the balance of the Willows Team was made up of high- quality young men that would ultimately really test this young MBC team. As with all 1st XI’s, the players come through in cycles and for this fresh MBC team it was a great opportunity to experience the amazing facility and atmosphere of the Willows Cricket Club. Traditionally after each match the Willows present a “Play in the V” bade for all the first-time players at the Willows. This year, Willows’ Captain, Mason Robinson handed out ten badges to some very young and talented Marlborough cricketers….that was very high number. The match highlights included a classy unbeaten 103 by St Thomas’s student James Jacques, as well as solid contributions from NZ Over 50’s opener John Garry (49), Colin Wood (43) and a quick fire 40 from Matt Stretch to get the Willows through to 295 off 50 overs. For the MBC, D Winstanley bowled with control taking 3-53, while MBC captain Josh Harris and Tom Heagney both attacked hard and claimed two wickets each. On a sunny Loburn afternoon and on a hard track, batting would prove to be difficult for the young MBC team with an exceptional bowling line up. This was spearheaded by young UK bowler Ollie Moore, who has been playing County 2nd XI and bowled at around 130km and with lovely control including both swing and seam. At the other end was NZ Over 50s bowler Kelvin Scott who was the total opposite, with less speed but plenty of inwards swing and variation. Then for the remainder of the innings the MBC students would face a high-quality spin attack of Tobias Delahunty, Matt Stretch as well as leg spin from James Jacques – all high quality spinners. For the MBC Fion Heagney showed courage (28) and D Alexander worked hard as the team worked their way through to be all out for 77. Although it was a tough encounter for the MBC team, from the moment the Willows Team clapped them off the ground, this would provide a positive memory each of them would never forget. With former CD bowler and long-time cricket icon Greg Logan as coach, and a wealth of experience and tips from the former students who had been there before, the teams were able to mix and messaging of keeping your heads held high, be patient, fight hard and always having pride in your school keenly recieved. MBC’s Player of the Day went to Fion Heagney, whose grandparents (Pete & Sue) would have been proud of his fighting display at the crease (It’s in the genes). While young James Jacques picked up the Willows team Player of the Day and has a great future. A special shout out also goes to the Paul Rutledge and the Willows Cricket Club as he encourages many of the former pupils to return and mix with the current students. This was a point well- received and appreciated by all involved and a real credit to the Willows values. This match was a special situation where good lessons were shared and will help this team for future matches. Over the next few years, the Willows will be ready to host a hugely developed MBC first XI. Robinson said “it was a privilege to lead and have so many former MBC players available and involved with the Willows, as well as be competitive but especially to make the connection with the current MBC team.

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