N.Z. CRICKETERS

Hokitika Guardian, 2 November 1931, Page 5

N.Z. CRICKETERS

WELCOME AT AUCKLAND. (By Telegraph —Per Press Association) AUCKLAND, November 1. That the performances and splendid behaviour of the New Zealand cricket team in England was thoroughly, appreciated by the Auckland public wa.s evidenced by the very fine attendance of the public on Queen’s Wharf and outside 'the gates this morning, when the “Ruahine” berthed -shortly after eleven o’clock. Officials of the Auckland Oi'icket Association and relations and friends of the members of -the team journeyed out by ail official launch to the vessel, when it had anchored in the stream. The New Zealand Cricket Council was represented by Messrs E. Heathcote Williams (Past President), D. Reese (President), E. R. Cay gill (Acting-Chairman of the Management Committee of the Council), W. H. Winsor (Secretary), P. Dnlrymple (member).and A. E. Bryne (Secretary of the New Zealand Cricket Limited), which Company promoted the tour, The members of the team all looked hale and hearty, and the majority of them have put\on a good deal of weight on the journey Home. They have obviously been a most happy party.

Mr Lowry, Captain of the team, said that they had all had a splendid time from beginning to end, having been overwhelmed with kindness and hospitality of every description. Before the trip was half over, they were forced to refuse offers of hospitality and entertainment, owing to the need for rest, and from a fear that it would interfere with. :the team’s cricket. He said: Our Sundays were spent either in playing golf or in visiting large country houses,' where the members of the team amused themselves as they wished a,t tennis, golf, fishing or ■swimming. Whether in London or in the provices, the members of the team were always provided with seats for any theatre they desired to attend, The team was introduced to the King during the first Test match, to the Prince of Wales during the second Test, to Prince George, in the match against Staffordshire, at Stoke, and again to the last-named Prince at the dinner given by the High Commissioner. for New Zealand, Sir Thomas Wilford. We also met many famous people representing all forms of sport and the stage at a dinner tendered us by Tom Webster, the famous cartoonist.