MATCH REPORT: The Willows v Otago Boys’ High School – 2026/27 Season Opener

Heavy rain at the ground meant the first match at The Willows for the 2026/27 season was reduced to 40 overs, but this didn’t dampen the cricket at Loburn, with The Willows producing an excellent all-round performance to open the season with a win.

The Willows posted 211 for 8 from their 40 overs, built around an outstanding innings from Jacob Cumming, who fell agonisingly short of a well deserved Willows century with 98. Against his old school, Jacob produced a superb display of power hitting, hitting eight sixes and punishing anything loose as he took control of the match. He was superbly supported by opening partner Kelvin Scott (43), with the pair putting on an impressive 122 runs for the first wicket. James O’Gorman (23) also chipped in as The Willows built a strong total in the shortened match.

Otago Boys’ fought back well with the ball, with Finlay Williamson the pick of the attack, taking 4–26, while Kade Lawrie picked up 2–21.

In reply, Otago Boys’ were led by a superb 73 from Sam Brophy. However, no one was able to stay with him for long as The Willows fielders and bowlers continued to apply constant pressure. The only other batsman of note was Zakariya Rizwan who finished unbeaten on 19, including some lusty blows towards the end.

The Willows’ left-arm spin combination of Jeremy Benton and Andrew Nuttall were highly effective through the middle and latter stages of the innings. Jeremy led the way with an outstanding 4–36, while the evergreen Andrew Nuttall provided excellent support adding another 3 wickets to his Loburn telly as Otago Boys’ were restricted to 155 for 8 from their 40 overs.

This gave The Willows a 56-run victory and a fantastic start to the 2026/27 season.

Despite the weather forcing a shortened game, it was a great day of cricket and a fitting way to begin another season at The Willows especially after last season game was rained off. Thank you to Otago Boys’ High School for making the trip and contributing to an enjoyable and competitive contest.

We wish Otago Boys’ all the best as they head to Blenheim for their annual pre-season quadrangular tournament against Auckland Grammar School, Christ’s College and Marlborough Boys’ College.

Special thanks also to our umpires, Match Manager Ken Rust, Chairman Paul Rutledge, and of course the Dormer family, whose ongoing support makes this all possible

Mark Billcliff The Willows Captain and OBHS Old Boy (1990-1994)

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