The big blow

Yes; it blew a bit in Wellington yesterday. But though it all, the Black Caps finally showed some of the fight we've been asking from them for some time. Cricinfo reviews the day's play.

After a meek first-innings capitulation, the second innings against the Australians has been a huge improvement. At the end of Day Four, the Black Caps lead by 67, with four second innings wickets in hand. And Brendon McCullum ended the day on 94 not out, poised for his most significant test century yet; his previous hundreds have come against Zimbabwe, India and Bangladesh (twice).

There's been a lot to like about the Black Caps' second-innings batting. They've batted time, which is what is required in test cricket. They've batted, by and large with discipline. And they've made the Australians work for their wickets.

New Zealand began its first innings at around 2.45pm on Saturday afternoon. Today, the Australian bowlers (and there are only four front-liners) will trudge wearily back on to the Basin Reserve, weather and light permitting, whilst the New Zealanders watch from the comfort of the players' lounge. The New Zealanders will be bouyed from having taken the match into a fifth day when it looked possible that they would lose in three. By contrast, the Australians have started to look frustrated, the bowlers look sore and leg-weary, and the conditions they experienced yesterday will have taken their toll. There's only a three-day turnaround before the Hamilton test match starts on Saturday.

In all probability Australia will win today, and it will be a deserved result. But let's give credit to the Black Caps for showing a bit of ticker, especially in the latter stages of the match.