What a fantastic series win for the CLEAR Black Caps!

It hasn't been the easiest of summers and to win over a class side like Pakistan is a huge achievement - it must give the guys confidence going into the Test series.

Great to see them fire at the top of the order with Nathan Astle, and to have Chris Harris finish things off (under a little bit of pressure) with Jacob Oram, who scored the winning hit of the game with a six over point off Shoaib Akhtar!!

Pretty good really.

I must say I have enjoyed watching the new players, Oram, Darryl Tuffey and Lou Vincent step up to the challenge at various stages of the National Bank series. The energy they bring to the side is noticeable.

I'm in Nelson doing some development work for New Zealand Cricket at the moment.

Nelson Cricket has recently implemented some new initiatives for girls and women and I am enjoying the opportunity to be involved in a number of skills clinics and meetings with local administrators.

University studies have begun for most students around the country and this year New Zealand Cricket has awarded four scholarships for talented female cricketers to study at Lincoln University and to take part in the New Zealand Cricket Academy programme.

The four players are: Fiona Fraser (ex Wellington), Sarah Burke (Canterbury), Aimee Mason (Central Districts) and Philippa Gerrish (Central Districts). They are recipients for this year's scholarship and all of these players performed with merit during this year's State Insurance cup.

The programme provides them with an excellent opportunity to study in their chosen field, as well as combining their cricket skills and training needs.

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