Adrian Seconi

Auckland's Anaru Kitchen has one day a year when he makes batting look ridiculously easy.

When it comes to test cricket, the Zimbabweans are still finding their feet after six years in exile.

Just when you think you understand cricket the game throws up a most unlikely result.

If there was a team Otago did not want to play in a preliminary final it would be Auckland.

Black Caps wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon McCullum was snapped up by his old club for a cool $US$900,000 ($NZ1.1 million) in the IPL player auction at the weekend.

Otago has taken the dramatic step of axing its captain ahead of a sudden-death playoff game against Canterbury at the University Oval on Sunday.

Jesse Ryder scored a hard-hit 96 from 67 deliveries just the other day. James Franklin claimed a five-wicket bag in the same match.

If new Black Caps left-armer Michael Bates ever needs any advice he can always call on his brother, former All Black Steven Bates.

Black Caps all-rounder Nathan McCullum has made a habit of leaving the party early this summer.

Less than a year ago, Steel co-coaches Janine Southby and Natalie Avellino were little more than acquaintances.

Twenty/20 is a brutal game.

Like most aspiring cricketers, Tom Latham played his first game for the Black Caps in the backyard.

Here is a mystery for you - the Wellington Firebirds.

Otago all-rounder Nathan McCullum has been threatening all summer and yesterday delivered with a stunning innings to help propel his side to a dramatic five-run win against Northern Districts at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

Steel back-up shooter Ashleigh Smith did not expect a spot in the Steel squad this season.