St Paul's won the toss and elected to bat on an old slow wicket and struggled initially against the slightly wayward bowling and the pace of the pitch, losing two early wickets. Come to the crease Chris Swanson and Alistair Blackett. Together they compiled a fourth wicket record partnership of 212 runs in record quick time. Chris scoring 128• – his second unbeaten century in two weeks which included twelve 4's and four 6's. He was well supported by the young Blackett who came so close to scoring his maiden century for the 1st XI, being knicked out on 95, which included nine 4's and three 6's. They were well supported by Scott Finlayson who scored a rapid fire 40. Rees Dickinson toiled hard for Matatmata College taking 2/67.
Matamata started off well and scored 32 for the first wicket with Chan Singh 20 and Joe Freeman 26 playing good shots but once the young Bede Higgins came on, the Matamata players struggled being bundled out for 104 in 31 overs – Bede taking his second 5 wicket bag in two weeks! He was well supported by Guy Wilkins 3/20.
St Paul's won the game by 228 runs which was a superb farewell for their Deputy Headmaster and Assistant Coach/Manager Chris Luman.
Bede Higgins has now earned his 1st XI Black Cap – something of a record as he has now taken two 5 wicket bags in only his fourth game for the 1s tXI. Well done.
Players of the day: Chris Swanson, Alistair Blackett, Bede Higgins
