In early November 2022 a strong Canterbury Country XI successfully uplifted the Hawke Cup from Hawkes Bay. In a match played at Nelson Park, Napier they won by an innings and 29 runs. In what was the ultimate team effort everyone in the side chimed in with either runs / wickets or both to comprehensively take the Cup.
It is one thing to win it; the next is to defend it. And in this they have been 100% successful in repulsing some stiff challenges. Victories have come on the back of good numbers from the batters, including a double-century from 2018/19 The Willows Shadbolt Trophy winner Archie Redfern, and a potent bowling attack. Here another Shadbolt recipient Fraser Sheat spear- headed the attack.
Congratulations must go to player-coach Tim Gruitjers and manager Chris Rowe who for several years have carefully nurtured this crop of very talented players. This season was their cash-in time. The huge depth in the North Canterbury squad augers well for future defences. Any combination of the 20-24 lads available for selection will do the Association proud as they continue to rewrite the record books and pile up new feats.
(Source: Annual Report 2022 - 2023)