19 Mar 2009

Contrasting fortunes for New Zealand cricketers

6:45 pm on 19 March 2009

It's been a day of contrasting fortunes for the New Zealand men's and women's cricket teams.

India's just one run behind the Black Caps at stumps on the second day of the first test in Hamilton with the tourists 278 for four.

India started the day at 29 for none, as they chased the Black Caps first innings total of 279.

The New Zealand bowlers have struggled all day, with all the Indian batsmen getting a start and Gautam Gambhir tops scoring with 72, although Sachin Tendulkar is unbeaten on 70.

Chris Martin was the most successful of the Black Cap bowlers picking up two wickets.

There's been success though for the New Zealand women's team with the White Ferns reaching the world cup final in Sydney after trouncing Pakistan by 223 runs in their final play off match.

The White Ferns amassed 373-7, with Suzie Bates scoring 168 off 105 balls while skipper Haidee Tiffen made 100.

Pakistan was dismissed for 150 with Lucy Doolan taking three wickets.

The White Ferns will play England in the final on Sunday.