What a Test match!

This is what it's all about. You just don't expect to see a result like this, along with so many outstanding performances in such a short time frame. I mean you've got a whole five days to get a result - often that in itself is an effort, but to do it in just over 2 days - is pretty phenomenal. Go the CLEAR Black Caps!

Mark Richardson and Matthew Bell again showed their class and resilience at the top of the order while Daryl Tuffey and Chris Martin continued to step up - what a great summer they've had. Craig McMillan - now that was pretty spectacular. Twenty six runs in one over. It was amazing to watch.

It was almost enough to get me moderately keen on playing the longer version of the game!

It's been a while since I've played a Test match - they are few and far between in the women's game with most countries around the world focusing on developing one-day cricket skills. I had to consult the record books to see how many Test matches I have played in my six years for New Zealand - the grand total five, the last in 1995.

I'd have to say my preference is definitely the one-day game. With a result assured, it's short, while still allowing time to bowl, bat and experience a variety of phases in the game. It's entertaining and people come to watch which creates a fantastic atmosphere that lifts you to even greater heights, as we discovered out at Lincoln in December.

Of course I do see some benefits in playing the longer version of the game. It provides an opportunity for batters to occupy the crease and build an innings and for bowlers, the chance to develop a "plan of attack", without the limitations of over restrictions or the preoccupation with economy that often becomes a focus in the shorter game.

Perhaps it is just that we haven't played Test cricket particularly well up until now. With the huge advancements that have been made in the women's game more recently we may see host countries offering a diet of both Test and one-day cricket. Who knows?

But for now the one-day game is the focus for women's cricket. It's fast paced, vibrant and is an exciting and marketable product as a result of the successful CricInfo Women's World Cup.

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