The Willows is an annual cricket event treasured by Otago Boys' steeped in history and tradition.

During the term 3 school holidays our 1st XI ventured forth to do battle against the mighty Willows invitation team led by old boy and All Black great Richie McCaw. Other notable old boys and first class cricketers were Hunter Kindley, Ben Lockrose and Josh Finnie, a well stacked team.

It was a fine but sizzling hot spring day and the pitch was a seamer's delight.

Bodhi Keiller returned 3 for 41 from 8 overs but the best effort was by Zac Cumming a miserly 1 for 18 from 10 overs.

Seb Kyle fought well for his 39 with the bat but Daniel Lawrence topped the innings with a valiant 43 not out.

Although we fell to the mighty 'Willows" the day was about experiencing the tradition of cricket at its finest and preparing us for our upcoming Gillette cup 2022 campaign starting this weekend.

Special thanks to coach Nathan King for a great trip.