Duke and Duchess join youngsters in cricket game

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge reacts to a bowl from Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. Picture: Getty

William and Kate showed of their batting and bowling skills when they joined a group of youngsters and former sports stars promoting the 2015 Cricket World Cup in Christchurch, New Zealand.

But the Duchess was left a little shocked when a demon delivery from the Duke flashed inches from her face when she stepped up to the crease to face her husband’s bowling.

Kate soon found her composure and wagged a finger at the Duke, as if to tell him off, and William replied with a mock laugh.

The royal couple were in Christchurch to carry out a number of engagements but the main focus was to pay their respects to victims of the devastating earthquake which struck the city on February 22 2011 leaving more than 180 people dead, and to learn about the reconstruction efforts.

William, who visited the city soon after the natural disaster struck, gave a speech during the day and described how they were moved by reminders of the earthquake and praised the “resilience and adaptability” of the people.