The game was played in front of NZ’s greatest ever cricketer, Sir Richard Hadlee. Also at the venue was John Wright (ND Cap #102) who shared some of his knowledge with many of our players – he also had some great stories about life on the IPL circuit! Other ND Alumni that attended were Michael Parlane (ND Cap #165) and David Kelly (ND Cap #196), who both live in Canterbury now.

Both clubs agreed to play a 110 over declaration match. The Willows won the toss and scored a competitive total of 235 after 45 overs. There were many ebbs and flows during The Willows innings but the bowlers stuck to their tasks with Gisborne local, David Gray, being the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 30 off 8 overs.

In reply Seddon Cricket Club got away to a great start and were 111 for 2 at one stage. Riley Kusabs (45) and Solomon Nash (31) were striking the ball very well. However, during the Seddon Cricket Club innings there was a very eery feel developing. There were many helicopters, police cars and media that started to circle the ground due to massive fires that were ablaze in the Loburn area. After 25 overs of the Seddon Cricket Club innings two police officers entered the venue by walking down the driveway and onto the ground. Players and supporters were quickly instructed to evacuate the field and leave Loburn as soon as possible.

The match was abandoned after 70 overs and declared a draw, due to fire! Big thanks for everyone who made the day possible and looking forward to the next one.