Mixed weather leading up to the game resulted in a delayed start reducing the game to 40 overs. It was again a privilege for everyone to play at one of the finest grounds in NZ. Former international Murray Parker was The Willows Host with the teams playing for the Mark Parker Trophy in memory of his son.

After a gentleman’s toss TBHS batted first on a slightly soft wicket and it wasn’t long until ‘The Postman’ Craig Hinton settled in on a good length and took the first wicket. He was supported by Joshua Sinclair who made his Willows debut. TBHS struggled to get going loosing early wickets, although Flynn Brookland and Kade Macmillan made promising starts. Timaru Boys’ reached 174 all out.

After a fantastic lunch and with temperature hitting 30 degrees The Willows batters settled into their work. Connor Bettsworth and Nathan McNichol looked solid at the crease while the Timaru Boys’ bowlers hit some very good areas. A 50 run opening partnership set a good platform for Nick Horsley to bat with some freedom. Connor continued unbeaten to show how to bat on a challenging wicket, with a mix of patience and power hitting. He received the man of the match for The Willows along with Kade Macmillan for TBHS.