Bowral Blues player shines as Southern Highlands cricket's top first grade batter at just 16 years of age

Making the most of seven visits to the crease due to COVID and rain interruptions, Willoughby's 2021/22 season included two centuries, two half centuries, 38 boundaries and a batting average of 133.3.

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A highlight for the Chevalier College student was a not-out century on Bradman Oval in January.

"Being on Bradman Oval is always special but hitting a first-grade ton there against a strong opposition is an amazing feeling," Willoughby said.

"The encouragement and camaraderie from everyone at Bowral Blues Cricket Club has been great. There have also been supportive words from people at other clubs, which have meant a lot."

Willoughby said despite the success, it was a frustrating season for cricketers in the Highlands and beyond.

"A lot of matches were cancelled because of rain, on top of the season being delayed because of COVID," he said.

"When we got to play the grounds were wet, making it harder to get runs. But that's cricket - you make the most of opportunities when they come."

Bowral Blues Cricket Club Captain Brett McAulay said Willoughby's achievements at such a young age were beyond what many in the local cricketing community had seen.

"Seeing Will take it up to seasoned first-grade bowlers had everyone's attention," he said.

"He used composure, technique and smart shot selection against the best quicks and spinners, including players with Sydney grade experience, even a former New South Wales bowler.

"We can only wonder how many more runs he might have scored if it wasn't for COVID and rain.

"Will's done this when he was still eligible to play in the association's junior division.

"He's an example of what we strive to do at the Blues - nurture players from the junior divisions and up the senior grades to maximise progression."

Blues President Ian Pope, who has been involved with local cricket for more than 40 years, said Will's efforts were at another level.

"Will's made a whopping impact to say the least," Ian said.

"I don't think what he's done at 16 can be compared to much around here in the past 20 years, maybe longer."

Willoughby is also a leg-spin and medium-pace bowler, even though his batting was the focus of the 2021/22 season.

He's previously Captained Sydney University Cricket Clubs Green Shield squads for two years and been in the Cricket NSW Pathway for talented players.

Anyone interested in participating in Bowral Blues Cricket Club winter training initiatives or registering for next season is invited to call Brett McAulay on 0466 322 582.

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