December 3rd was a big day in the history of The Willows Cricket Club as it coincided with the opening of the Don Neely Library by his wife, Paddianne who was accompanied by her son’s, Jason and Sean and grandson Otis.

The Development Squad won the toss and elected to bat. After ten overs they were 50 without loss with James Hoskin and Henry Hyatt batting well. Unfortunately the run rate was not maintained and following the fall of the first wicket the Development XI struggled to score from some accurate bowling by the Willows team. Jason Pawson was particularly accurate and demanding, however, James Richards was most effective with three wickets and Otis Neely with two quick wickets.

The highlight of Willows fielding performance was the dismissal of the oldest player, Stan Woolliscroft (73) being very well caught from the bowling of the youngest player, Otis Neely, by his uncle Sean. I am not sure who was the most surprised, was it the catcher or the bowler?!

The Development team was all out for 154 in the 42nd over and after another fantastic Willow’s lunch the Willow’s team were able to chase down the required runs within 25 overs. The highlight of the innings was Jarrod Ward’s 79 off 85 balls. Also noteworthy was Ryan Withells 3 for 15 from five overs and Ashan Wanasinghe 2 for 40 off 7.

After the match we enjoyed the famous Willow’s BBQ and some lovely words from Paddianne who acknowledged the long-term friendship between Don and Mike Dormer and Don’s love and support of the Willows since inception. For me it’s one of the most memorable matches that I have been involved with at the Willows since 1994. A fabulous group of players who enjoyed the competition and the occasion and the opportunity to play on a first-class playing surface and in addition having the opportunity to enjoy the memorabilia in the recently upgraded pavilion.