Last Sunday, King’s once again ventured to Loburn in North Canterbury to play The Willows Cricket Club in an annual fixture against them that started back in 2007.  

Our earlier game had been rained out when we returned from our trip to Australia, so the boys really appreciated the opportunity to play them again.

The Willows won the toss and King’s was asked to bowl. At 4/150 after 35 overs, The Willows looked like they would post a large total, but the King’s fielding and some very tight bowling, restricted The Willows to 206 after 49 overs. Dave Kelly, an ex-John McGlashan boy and former Central Districts first class cricketer, posted a tradesman-like 100 for the Willows. All the King’s bowlers had success but Jack Oaten once again was the pick, bowling eight overs 3/38. He received outstanding support from Kasey Short (seven overs, 1/16) and Kyle Burns (1/22 off eight overs). Beckham Greenall – Wheeler took a spectacular catch to end the Willows’ innings.

King’s runs chase got off to a great start after an awesome luncheon and we were on 57 after 15 overs before we lost our first wicket. The rot then set in and we were 5/85 after 30 overs and staring down the barrel of a heavy defeat. Connor Murray came to the rescue, making 55 not out and Nathan Hastie 51 not out, sharing in a 112 run partnership to guide King’s home to victory in the 46th over. Useful contributions came from Jeremy Hastie (40) and Nic Brosnahan (30).

This is our 3rd victory in a row over The Willows who are a team selected from past NZ players and former first class players, along with experienced club cricketers. The team play over 20 other school First XI teams at their home ground, “The Willows“ is an outstanding venue and a vision created by Mike Dormer who has turned a farm paddock into a first class venue. It’s an honour and privilege to be invited each year to play there.

Michael Reggett

Manager King’s 1st Cricket XI